Go and vaccinate!

Not so long ago, Batswana were seemingly outraged at the slow roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccines by the government and constantly called for swift action. At the time, many felt the government was not doing enough to source the much-needed vaccines especially during winter time when the country experienced a spike in both cases and the number of recorded deaths. This started a trend on social media with the hashtag #VaccinateBotswana. Whether the hashtag prompted a swift response from the government one may never know, but what became evident was the effort shown by the government to source and speed up the roll-out of the vaccines.

Now the vaccines are here, the government has responded well to the cries of the nation but disappointingly enough, Batswana are reluctant to get vaccinated.

It’s been weeks since many sites were commissioned to administer different brands of vaccines, but majority of Batswana are still not being vaccinated and it may seem as though some are not even thinking of getting the jab. What could be the problem, if one may ask? This leaves one seriously wondering what was the rage all about since now the vaccines are not being utilised as expected. We have to admit that the government has really tried to speed up the roll-out and it’s now up to us as individuals to take responsibility and get vaccinated. Therefore, this is a time to encourage every single Motswana eligible for vaccination to do the needful and get the jab at any site across the country for free.

As Batswana, we have to realise that vaccination does not only protect us, it can also shield those around us therefore, reducing the risk of having another spike in COVID-19 cases. As it stands, the country cannot afford to have another wave while the vaccines are available but not used.

#VaccinateBotswana hashtag did wonders for us as the government recognised the need for a better health care, so let us do our part to help also. While there is reluctance to vaccinate, there is also a trend amongst Batswana being irresponsible and not obeying COVID-19 rules and guidelines. We all have to remember that though the economy is opening up, there is still so much that needs to be done to make sure that the country doesn’t fall prey to a third wave of the virus. This includes those that indulge in alcoholic beverages where it seems once the alcohol flows, all COVID-19 protocols are thrown out to the window. Most times there is no social distancing nor masking while crowding is also visible.

Such an irresponsible and reckless behaviour should never be condoned as this might have serious repercussions for the country. We are all responsible for our lives and those around us, so help the government. Go and vaccinate.