The government is stepping up Covid vaccination efforts aimed at a wider section of the population, including children aged 12 and over, as steps to increase vaccine uptake gains momentum.

Zimbabwe’s national vaccination campaign, which got underway a year ago, came to a halt due to declining demand.

However, acting Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu said during a post-Cabinet briefing that it was important for all Zimbabweans to receive the jab, reports All Africa News.

"The National Vaccination blitz/campaign will kick off on Monday, March 21, 2022 and the government is urging those that have not yet been vaccinated to take advantage of this exercise to do so," he said.

In February, the Cabinet approved the administration of the vaccine to 12-year-olds, having been given the go ahead by the Paediatric Association of Zimbabwe. As such, those between 12 and 15 years of age will also start receiving the vaccine following the 16-17-year-old bracket, which was given the green light at the end of last year.

Zimbabwe’s government has also introduced teams to administer vaccines in secondary schools, and the jab will also be included in the general childhood vaccination programmes.

These latest efforts will also include all other eligible citizens in the country who have not yet received the vaccine.

Minister Ndlovu said the pandemic was still rife and urged the public to remain cautious. "The government is appealing to all Zimbabweans to take the Covid-19 pandemic seriously and as such are required to continue to adhere to the laid down World Health Organisation and national protocols at all times.

"These protocols include the following: the wearing of masks correctly at all times; washing of hands and; observing social distance. The citizens are being urged to be on their guard at all times to minimise infections," he stated.