Govt has secured 20 million euros for the establishment of the proposed National Vaccine Institute in Ghana, to facilitate the local production of vaccines in its bid to overcome the threats of the pandemics especially the coronavirus.
The necessity has come about due to what President Akufo-Addo has described as the unfair global distribution of vaccines and the objective by the country not to become dependent on the goodwill of the international community.
Presenting his 27th update on the covid19 situation to the nation, President Akufo-Addo revealed that he secured some 82.5 million euros from his recent working visit to Luxemburg, of which the 20 million seed money for the National Vaccine Institute will be derived.
On the issue of reopening borders, the president acknowledged the plight of the local businesses but opined that the time is not right to do so.
He assured the communities concerned that the administration was monitoring the threats of the disease and vaccine uptake in the neighbouring countries, which might influence a change in the directive.
President Akufo-Addo further revealed that govt’s concern is to limit the importation of the virus through the Kotoka International airport, revealing that international passengers arrivals are the highest source of infections in the country, which has led to the latest intensive efforts to ensure vaccination of all travelers.
President Akufo-Addo used the address to assure Ghanaians that the vaccines are safe to take.
He debunked some unfounded claims against the vaccination drive of govt calling them outrageous and urged all Ghanaians to do well to get vaccinated, which he said according to the World Health Organisation reduces the risk of death.
He urged all Ghanaians especially during the festive season, to keep adhering to the laid down enhanced hygiene protocols and maintain the positive situation in the country.
By: Isaac Clottey
