AstraZeneca vaccine sold to 18 AU member states, Mkhize confirms

This followed a decision by government to stop the use of AstraZeneca vaccine after it was found to be less effective against the variant first discovered in South Africa. 

Mkhize gave an update in a statement on Friday morning saying the vaccines were sold through the task team established by President Cyril Ramaphosa as AU chair.

He, however, did not disclose how much the country has sold them for.

“Through the co-ordinated efforts of this task team we are pleased to confirm that,after concluding the sale of one million Astra Zeneca doses to the African Union, the first batch of these doses have been dispatched from South Africa.

 Although it was a difficult decision for us to halt the rollout of Astra Zeneca, due to the challenges posed by the 501Y.V2 variant, it is gratifying to know that eighteen (18) member states will benefit from the AU allocation of the Astra Zeneca acquisition from South Africa.” 

Countries which will benefit include Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal and Guinea. 

Mkhize added that the government is pleased to see a successful conclusion.

“The disposal of the vaccines has ensured a win-win solution for all. Through the sale, South Africa will not incur fruitless and wasteful expenditure.

“We also welcome the contributions made by MTN-Africa, which assisted in the purchase of the stock. This is a shining example of successful private, public partnership and we call on others in the business sector to join us in the final battle against COVID-19 and make similar contributions to boost Africa’s mass vaccination campaign.”

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