By ZBC Reporter
THE private sector has intensified mobilisation of resources to complement government efforts in the procurement of Covid-19 vaccines in line with the national target to immunise at least 60% of the country’s population.
The sector which employs approximately 350 000 people has emphasised the power of collaborative efforts in minimising the negative impact of COVID-19 on the economy.
Speaking to ZBC News Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) Chief Executive Officer Mr Christopher Mugaga said the private sector has stepped up efforts to ensure that the country attains herd immunity by pooling resources for vaccine procurement.
It is very important to acknowledge, accept and understand that the role of the private sector cannot be underestimated. We are not a unique case, if you go to South Africa you will see those big corporates are very much involved through their health insurance and in the US it’s not a secret there is so much effort by the private sector in assisting their government, said Mugaga.
The domestic associations involved in the initiative include Chamber of Mines, Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries and Bankers Association of Zimbabwe.
Meanwhile, players in the tourism and travel industry have made a passionate to be included in the second phase of the ongoing national Covid-19 vaccination programme as most workers in the hospitality sector remain at high risk of contracting the virus.
If you look at the people that the immigration officers will be assisting, where do they stay? They stay in hotels and lodges. So definitely these people will end up staying with us and they stay longer in hotels. I strongly feel the tourism industry value chain should also be prioritized in the COVID-19 vaccination programme, said Mr Anald Musonza-Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe Vic Falls Chairperson.
Globally, the private sector has been actively involved, not only in procurement of the vaccines but in funding research aimed at curbing the spread of the pandemic.
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