VERBATIM

“We fully support the initiative by the WHO [World Health Organisation], together with many governments, nonprofit organisations and industry leaders, to speed up the development and production of vaccines and therapeutics, and to ensure that they are distributed quickly and equitably across the globe.” — President Cyril Ramaphosa addressing the 73rd World Health Assembly on Monday.

“We do not have time to waste. That is why it is my duty as president of the United States to inform you that if the World Health Organisation does not commit to major substantive improvements within the next 30 days, I will make my temporary freeze of the United States funding to the World Health Organisation permanent and reconsider membership in the organisation.” — US President Donald Trump in a four-page letter to the WHO, threatening to pull out of the organisation because of what he views as its “failed response to the pandemic”.

“We are preparing for level three, we want to move to level three, to reopen the economy. But in a responsible way, in a more cautious way ... We can't stay at level four for too long because too many people don't have the means to support themselves." — Gauteng Premier David Makhura.

“Taking a moment to shine a light on African arts to benefit the African homeland and its people. A continent of this size should find a way to dig deep and stand up for one another at a time like this." — Actor and musician Idris Elba on a virtual concert on May 25, Africa Day, which will feature the likes of Angelique Kidjo, AKA, Sauti Sol and Fally Ipupa. Proceeds will go towards the health and nutritional needs of children and families affected by the Covid-19 crisis in Africa.