Botswana secure half a million Moderna doses

The Government of Botswana has secured half a million Moderna vaccine doses. The Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) vaccines has been secured with a financial aid from De Beers Group, Debswana, and Diamond Trading Company (DTC) Botswana.

According to a a statement by the government, Memorandum of Agreement has been signed with Moderna to produce the said number of doses.

“De Beers Group, Debswana and DTCB’s financial contribution has funded 40 per cent of the cost of the vaccines. Due to the ongoing tightness in global supply for vaccines, the doses will be delivered in phases in accordance with the terms of the agreement between the Government of Botswana and Moderna Switzerland GmbH.” the statement revealed.

The Moderna COVID‑19 Vaccine uses mRNA to provide a blueprint for cells to build body’s defense against SARS‑CoV‑2, the virus that causes COVID‑19. The Moderna COVID‑19 Vaccine does not contain SARS‑CoV‑2, or any virus—just the blueprint to help fight against it.

For one to be fully vaccinated using Moderna vaccine, two shots are needed. However, for immunocompromised individuals, the third shot may be needed to improve immunity. This means that with half a million doses, a maximum of two hundred and fifty thousand individuals may be fully vaccinated.

Alongside funding vaccine procurement, the financial pledge made by De Beers Group, Debswana and DTCB in support of Botswana’s vaccine rollout has also been used for in-kind support. This includes the establishment of the Jwaneng Mine Hospital Vaccination centre and the Debswana Corporate Centre (DCC) vaccination point in Gaborone.

“The Covid-19 Delta variant has increased the challenges being experienced around the globe and we are committed to standing shoulder to shoulder with our partners in Botswana both to address urgent needs, and step-up to support the nation’s longer-term recovery. De Beers’ belief in Botswana, its people and their future, remain unshakable. We are pleased to have been able to play a role in supporting Government with its vaccine procurement and rollout plan during this challenging period due to low global availability of doses at a time of great need. Partnership has always been at the heart of De Beers relationship with the people of Botswana, and it is more important now than ever before.” Bruce Cleaver, CEO, De Beers Group, said.