The People’s Republic of China has promised to give another 200,000 doses of Sinopharm to The Gambia to fight coronavirus infections. The promise came as the country battle a third wave of coronavirus.
Speaking at the handing over ceremony of the 400,000 hand gloves in Kotu, the Chinese ambassador to Banjul, His Excellency Ma Jain Chun, said: “the Chinese government will provide The Gambia with 200,000 doses of Sinopharm vaccine as a grant.”
“China will do its utmost to provide needed support to African countries with international communities, include the UN Agencies and the WHO representatives. China is willing to help The Gambia improve its medical and health level through medical equipment and medicine donation, sending medical teams and Human Resources cooperation,” he added.
He continued: “Minister Samateh and I are communicating and coordinating on the preparations for receiving the vaccines.”
He described the coronavirus pandemic as “the most serious pandemic in a century as it is still wreaking havoc in The Gambia and Africa, Gambian governments and its people have taken strong measures to slow the spread of the virus.”
He added that an initiative on partnership for Africa’s Development was jointly launched by China and African countries at the UN Security Council, it’s aims at calling on the international community to support Africa in public health sector.
Dr Amdou Samateh, health minister congratulated the Chinese government for their continue support to the country. He said the medical items donated includes, maternal and newborn care supplies and medical appliances, medical supplies for healthcare workers and hygiene products, which worth over 31 million dalasi (620,000USD).