I have been following with much interest how other countries are preparing for the distribution of the Covid-19 vaccines to their populations.
In particular, I have been comparing the approaches taken by other countries in Africa, and on the Asian sub-continent to that of ours.
One of the first things that struck me was how much of the planning here involves spending on new infrastructure (permanent or temporary), such as mobile clinics, cold-rooms, storage facilities and the like.
Now one has to question, in the light of the endemic procurement corruption we live with whether, such spending is necessary, or whether it just the usual suspects taking advantage of an opportunity a la the PPE procurement bonanza they just enjoyed.
Notwithstanding the problems in our public health sector, the level of infrastructure and human resources dwarfs what is available in most of our African and Asian peers, and yet many of them, particularly India, have already started their vaccine roll-out programmes.
A key element in the rapid execution of their programmes has been consultation with elders in villages and rural communities, with a view to utilising existing supply chains, no matter how low-tech they may be.
One of my major concerns generally, has been the disengagement between communities, both rural and urban and the different spheres of government – an attitude that is promoted that ‘we know what’s best for you’.
Arguably, in confronting this pandemic, and the roll-out of the desperately needed vaccine, this is maybe the worst approach to take.
There also seems to be a fear in Government circles, that if low-tech solutions are chosen, we would be looked down upon by our more developed peers.
This is not to say that the required protocols to safeguard the transport and administration of the vaccines should be overlooked: it is an appeal to assess each solution on the merits of efficacy, rather than the image it portrays about the country’s level of technological development.
The rapid, efficient and universal roll-out of the Covid-19 vaccine could be regarded as the biggest test this country has faced.
To fail, by having it captured inefficiency, mismanagement and corruption is something the government can not afford.
Vijay Naidoo writes in his personal capacity as CEO of the Port Shepstone Business Forum.
The views expressed are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect those of this publication.
* Vijay Naidoo writes in his capacity as CEO of the Port Shepstone Business Forum. The views expressed are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect those of this publication.
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