The COVID-19 vaccination goal involves vaccinating the most vulnerable 10% of each country’s population against the COVID-19. 42 out of 54 African nations are unfortunately going to miss this goal with September being the target to hit the goal.
Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO regional Director for Africa said “Only 39 million people, less than 3% of Africa’s population are fully vaccinated compared to 50% in Europe and the US”
This low vaccination rate will make it difficult for Africa to curb COVID-19 as well as the rest of the world due to new COVID variants being discovered.
Nine nations in Africa have exceeded the 10% target.This nine countries include South Africa,Seychelles,Morocco among others while Senegal, Namibia and Botswana would be able to hit the target if they expedite vaccinations.
Moeti also described vaccine hoarding as a reason why Africa was behind in vaccinations however, he also urged for african countries to expedite vaccinations as new doses arrive.
214000 COVID cases have been reported in Africa. 25 African countries are reporting a rapid incline of COVID cases. Over 5500 deaths were reported in the last week of August 2021.
Africa’s third wave peaked in July however,a decline in new cases is slower than its previous waves.
