Rwanda is currently undertaking a major Covid vaccination effort, particularly in the City of Kigali where anyone aged 18 and above is now eligible for inoculation. The third phase of the vaccination campaign, launched Monday this week, is a major prerequisite for re-opening the capital, which by far accounts for most economic activity in the country. The move is seen as a major boost for Rwanda’s vaccination drive and the arrival of vaccines (albeit belatedly) should put the national inoculation plan back on track. With the Government targeting to administer at least one jab to 90 per cent of Kigali adult residents by the end of next week, there is hope it will see the capital get closer to reopening aspects of life that have been on pause for more than a year. It is encouraging that many young people have thronged vaccination sites across the three urban districts over the last couple of days, signalling continued good record on national vaccine uptake. But vaccinations also continue in the countryside, with a particular emphasis on populations deemed to be at high risk for contracting the virus due to the nature of their day-to-day work. This, in addition to inoculating priority groups including frontline workers and the elderly, should put the country firmly on the path to recovery. Indeed, prioritising the vulnerable and high-risk groups is the most logical path out of this crisis in a situation where vaccine access remains extremely uncertain in developing countries. That said, it is vitally important that anyone with the opportunity to be vaccinated does take the jab as soon as possible, as this would be a vital contribution in the ongoing war against the pandemic. If we are to beat this virus, we must all work together and pull in the same direction. It shouldn’t just come down to individual choices. As we have seen, no one is safe until everyone is. So, even if you have taken the vaccine, make it a point to encourage your peers, friends and family who are eligible for the shot to go for it as well. If you are the head of a household, encourage eligible members to go for vaccination. The same applies to employers, religious leaders and community members. Let’s all work together in this effort. It should be a collective responsibility.
