NO SEVERE LOCKDOWN ...as schools shutdown
Gov’t expecting 500 000 doses of Johnson and Johnson vaccine The plan is to vaccinate the whole population by 2022 Masisi concerned SA unrest might trigger food and fuel shortage
Many Batswana across the country will breath a sign of relief after waiting with bated breath to hear the contents of President Mokgweetsi Masisi’s speech that was delivered last night (Tuesday). Amidst a raging COVID 19 pandemic many anticipated that the president will impose another heavy national lockdown that could results in dire consequences to the country’s ailing economy. However, the president moved to shutdown local schools that have been identified as COVID 19 hot spots with both teachers, parents and stakeholders having raised alarm over rising numbers of infections and deaths. During his speech, Masisi, who was in a rather somber mood said he is in great pain because of the ravaging Covid_19 crisis that continues to claim lives in Botswana. In his eagerly anticipated national address, Masisi said, “I am pained by the rippling effects of Covid -19 in the country, this virus is very deadly. I beg you to do all you can to fight it and pray hard until we defeat it,” he said.
Masisi said he does not enjoy imposing heavy lock downs or sending the police after citizens but all he is asking for is that people take responsibility for their health. The president urged the country’s citizens to adhere to advice given by health authorities because Covid-19 was continuously collapsing the economy. He further expressed anxiety over reported unrest in neighbouring South Africa, noting that the country might experience shortage of basic necessities such as food and fuel supply. Thus, he advised that Botswana should ensure that it has enough to sustain its people through self reliance. “It will surely get worse before it gets better.” With regards to vaccination, the president noted that they are expecting 500 000 Johnson Johnson vaccines to arrive in the country before year end. Government, according to Masisi is also expecting the arrival of Mordena vaccines. The intention, he said is to have vaccinated all Batswana by latest 2022. However, currently prioritization will continue being given to those with underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension and cancer.
Those most affected by these conditions are the elderly. “To this extent, eighty percent (80 percent) of those who have lost their lives in this country are over 50 years,” Masisi said. Masisi said that Africa as a whole was severely hit in the first week of July. He further explained that the global shortage of vaccines was making it hard for African countries to vaccinate their people, Botswana included. In an effort to prevent further spread of the virus in the country, Masisi announced that Gov’t will be closing schools for a month. Curfew times remain at 10pm – 4am and alcohol sale remains suspended.