KAMPALA – The Ministry of Health has said it cannot import a Covid-19 vaccine being used by Chinese nationals in Uganda, saying it has not been approved by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Dr Henry Mwebesa, the Director General of Health Services, said the drug is being used by Chinese nationals, who claim it is being used in their country but that does not mean it is safe for use by Ugandans.
“The Ministry would like to clarify that the Chinese COVID-19 vaccine is still under research. It is not approved for use by World Health Organization (WHO). We are not sure of its potency or safety hence Government cannot import It for use by Ugandans. The Chinese in Kapeeka want to import the vaccine for use by Chinese nationals only, since they claim they are already using it in their home country,” Dr Mwebesa said Tuesday.
“For Uganda, the Ministry has quantified and applied for the Astra Zeneca COVID-19 vaccine through the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization GAVI, and the process is in advanced stage. This is a vaccine which government is aware has gone through WHO clearance and approval. The public will soon be informed of when the vaccine will arrive in the country,” he added.
He was responding to social media reports which showed a letter authorising the importation of a vaccines for Liao Shen Industrial Park, Kapeeka through Sim Africa Medicines and Health Ltd.
