Ghana: President kicks off Covid-19 vaccination campaign
President Nana Akufo-Addo was the first to be vaccinated, in front of the cameras, on March 1, 2021. (illustrative image) AFP - CRISTINA ALDEHUELA
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The vaccination campaign against Covid-19 starts this Tuesday, March 2.
In total, 600,000 free doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine will be distributed in 43 districts most affected by the pandemic.
Primarily intended for caregivers and those over 60.
On Monday, President Nana Akufo-Addo himself kicked off the vaccination campaign.
But not sure that this gesture is enough to reassure Ghanaians, as mistrust remains strong with regard to vaccines in the country.
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Modification of DNA, implantation of microchips or even damage to African population growth… President Nana Akufo-Addo tried on Monday to cut short rumors about vaccines by being vaccinated first, in front of the cameras.
On Sunday, he again addressed the nation in an attempt to reassure.
Despite this, skepticism remains, explains Kobi Annan, analyst at the Songhai Advisory Board think tank.
“
Unfortunately, developing countries, especially in Africa, do not have a very positive record when it comes to vaccine deployment.
We have seen horrific cases, for example in Nigeria where the giant Pfizer has acted outrageously and such examples leave traces.
In addition, this product - and it has been said very publicly - has not been subjected to additional tests, but authorized urgently.
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To try to dispel these reluctance, Accra relies on pedagogy, explains Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, government spokesman.
"
We are explaining to people the science behind the vaccination that we have been practicing in Ghana since the 1970s. We talk to them about the health benefits, we also answer some of the conspiracy theories, and for that we have brought in religious leaders. , civil society organizations, and community leaders and we hope that with all of this, we will get there.
"
Ghana has recorded more than 84,000 Covid cases and 607 deaths, including nearly 200 just last month.
On Monday, 1st March 2021, my beautiful Rebecca and I were at the 37 Military Hospital to take the COVID-19 vaccine publicly.
The vaccine is safe, and it will help protect us against the impact of COVID-19 on our health.
1/2 pic.twitter.com/4MVXOioOIo
- Nana Akufo-Addo (@NAkufoAddo) March 1, 2021
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Ghana
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Coronavirus