While many inmates welcomed the opportunity to get vaccinated, some had a mixed reaction. Others bluntly refused to take a jab, some arguing that it went against their religion and cultural belief.

Vaccination is done on a voluntary basis. It is however, highly recommended so that everybody can be protected.

Hector Mdletye (46), a father of eight, from Emdeni, Soweto, is a Sangoma and believes that jab will “ultimately enable governments to monitor and track those who accept it.” “Together with my family, we are not accepting the jab,” he told Ster North.

Some of the inmates said they were concerned about getting vaccinated after reading about the J&J vaccine causing blood clots in a small percentage of people who had received the jab on social media.

Thabo Joseph Ralejoe (38) from Thabong near Welkom, was one of many inmates who were excited to received the jab. He encouraged others inmates to save lives by taking the jab.

He told Ster North that he still feels good after having taken the jab two days ago.

The spokesperson of the Correctional Services in Free State and Northern Cape, Josia Ramokoena, confirmed that inmates have the right to refuse the vaccine.

According to him at least 90% of inmates of Groenpunt had opted to take the jab voluntarily.

He said inmates are living in socially distanced conditions to prevent the spread of COVI-19. “We are obliged to offer the same medical treatment to everyone,” he said. “By the same token, inmates are free to refuse vaccination according to their personal and individual beliefs. The official vaccine rollout at Groenpunt commenced on 21 July. To date, a total of 638 people have already been vaccinated with the J&J vaccine.

As of 26 July, over 4 081 inmates had been vaccinated at 12 vaccination sites in the region.

Rachel Phori, regional vaccination coordinator, says the process and possible side-effects is thoroughly explained to inmates before administering the jab.