By Own Correspondent
Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube has refuted claims that Zimbabweans will have to pay in if they want to be vaccinated for COVID-19.
The minister said he was misquoted by the media, adding that the vaccines that will be acquired through support from development partners will be administered for free.
Zimbabwe is working on purchasing the life-saving vaccines. About US$100 million has been reserved and this will be coupled with some vaccine coming from China.
In a statement to correct the misconception, Mthuli said he was quoted out of context.
“It has come to my attention that, my comments about the payment for the Covid-19 vaccine have been taken out of context.
“I would like to make it clear that the vaccines that the government is procuring with the help of our international partners and friends, will be made available for free to the citizens of Zimbabwe,” he said.
Chiwenga confirms vaccines will be free
Mthuli’s statement has also been echoed by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga who has reiterated that vaccines will made available for free.
In a statement, the Vice President revealed that Zimbabwe has received vaccine donations from China and that more will be bought.
“In response to the growing threat of public health, the government of Zimbabwe forged synergies with friendly states, civil society organisations, strategic partners and the generality of Zimbabweans to combat the pandemic.
“We welcome and are very grateful to the People’s republic of China for their donation of Covid 19 vaccine to Zimbabwe. The landmark gesture will achieve a milestone in combatting the pandemic.
“Furthermore the government embarked on a deliberate effort to acquire more vaccines. Let me reiterate that government will roll out vaccines for free to all citizens who wish to be vaccinated.
“The policy is inspired by humane morales that, life should not be bought,” he said. Get more Covid-19 Stats from CovidZW.info #OpenCovidContracts
I was misquoted on payment for vaccines: Mthuli Ncube
