The Government of Tanzania has launched a third round of intensified COVID-19 vaccination in a bid to reach 70 per cent of the eligible population and attain herd immunity.
Through its Global Vax Initiatives, the United States of America has supported the new effort by donating nearly 5 million doses of Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer vaccines and collaborated with other partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO), to launch the drive in Dar es Salaam.
The new round targets to revitalise the uptake of vaccines and reach over 4 million Tanzanians across all 36 regions – targeting those who missed the second doses as well the elderly, people with disabilities, and those in marginalised areas.
The campaign will involve massive demand creation and awareness through different channels including door-to-door sensitisation.
Tanzania Minister of Health, the Honourable Ummy Mwalimu, warned the public on the threat COVID-19 still poses and urged everyone to keep vigilant and get vaccinated.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Zabulon Yoti, Acting WHO Country Representative to Tanzania, reiterated the commitment to facilitate partnership and support the government of Tanzania in building a health system capable of efficiently responding to health emergencies. He commended the Global Vax support and emphasised the vital role vaccines act in fighting the pandemic.
Tanzania has managed to vaccinate 14 per cent of its population aged 18 and above since the immunisation campaign began in July 2021.
Learn More: The World Health Organization – Africa
Download our new edition of the Commonwealth Health Report for free: Commonwealth Health Report 2022
