Less than a week after the Ministry of Health submitted the prerequisite documentation for the delivery of COVID-19 vaccines in The Gambia, the country has joined other African countries such as Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana and Anglo as they received the  first consignment of 36,000 doses of  coronavirus vaccines on late Tuesday 2nd March  2021, at the Banjul International Airport through the COVAX facility.

The Minister of Health, Dr. Samateh, described the event as a momentous occasion for The Gambia and assured the public that the vaccines are safe and effective. “Now that both the syringes and vaccines are here, we are expediting our plans to ensure that vaccination of healthcare workers, those with underlying medical conditions, and elderly people of 65 years and above kicks off soon. I must reiterate that the Government of The Gambia only accepts vaccines that are safe and effective, and these vaccines have passed the test.”

Gambia is expected to receive more COVID-19 vaccines and syringes in the advancing weeks.

COVAX is a global initiative co-led by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance, and the World Health Organization (WHO), alongside key implementing partner UNICEF, working to ensure equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines for all countries.

 

By: Fatoumatta Samateh