Covid19 Update: Ramaphosa Speaks on Mass Vaccination, AstraZeneca Bought

Monday, March 22, 2021 at 10:27 AM by Reeshni Chetty

- There have been some big developments with regards to South Africa's response to Covid-19

- The AstraZeneca vaccines sale has been acquired and concluded, according to Health Minister Dr Zweli Mkhize

- President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed in his Human Rights Day speech that all citizens would receive the vaccine

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During his Human Rights Day address, President Cyril Ramaphosa assured all South Africans that they would received the Covid-19 vaccination. More than 180 000 healthcare workers have received the vaccine so far.

Ramaphosa urged South Africans to be patient about receiving the vaccine while assuring all that their time for receiving the jab was coming. On Sunday evening it was also confirmed that the sale of the AstraZeneca vaccines had been concluded.

Health Minister Dr Zweli Mkhize stated logistical arrangements for the vaccines, which were sold to the African Union, have been made.

Sale of Covid-19 Vaccines

Minister Zweli Mkhize confirmed the sale through Twitter stating that the vaccine would benefit nine member states and the balance would be collected this week to be delivered to five other countries.

Every person to benefit from the Covid-19 vaccine

Ramaphosa said that the government is currently working to ensure all citizens receive the vaccine.

Number of cases

The total number of new Covid-19 cases confirmed in the country on Sunday, 21 March was 1 051 with 29 more deaths:

The cumulative number of confirmed Covid-19 cases in South Africa sits at 1 547 852 while the total number of deaths is 52 111.

Previously, Briefly.co.za reported that South Africans raised concerns about the increase in Covid-19 cases. On Monday, 15 March, the number of new Covid-19 cases was 613. On Thursday, 18 March, the number of new cases in the last 24 hours was reported as 1 464.