The Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla, launched the ‘Vooma Vaccination Weekend’ campaign in Ezakheni C-Section on Friday (October 1). He was accompanied by uThukela District Mayor Siphiwe Mazibuko, Alfred Duma Mayor Vincent Madlala, senior management of the department, officials and other stakeholders. This campaign gives effect to the call by President Cyril Ramaphosa for every minister, premier and mayor to convene at least one prominent event in every district in the country to support and encourage people to get vaccinated against the coronavirus (Covid-19).
This includes providing information and taking vaccination sites into communities and homes. The day’s activities started at the uThukela District Boardroom, where the minister and both mayors were briefed about the Covid-19 status in the province, as well as in the district. Though the infection rate is seemingly declining, what is concerning is the large number of people who are still hesitant to get vaccinated.
Speaking during the campaign launch, Minister Phaahla said, “We need to get as many people as possible vaccinated. We are equally aware that much more still needs to be done to get this right.” He is concerned about the myths that people are spreading about the vaccine. According to the report presented, it was worrying that the black community is far behind with vaccinations, as compared to other races.
Mayor Madlala acknowledged that there are challenges when it comes to vaccinating communities in rural areas. He believes that, by working together with stakeholders, those challenges can be addressed. His sentiments were echoed by Mayor Mazibuko, who also mentioned that service delivery backlogs affect the supply of water in various areas and was concerned about those who instigate the community to protest, especially as we are heading towards local government elections.
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The delegation monitored the vaccination site in Ezakheni and also engaged in a door-to-door campaign to encourage people to go out and get vaccinated in order to curb the spread of the pandemic. The delegation then proceeded to the Estcourt taxi rank to continue with the day’s activities.
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