South Sudan to receive 800, 000 doses of AstraZeneca vaccine

South Sudan is expecting a significant boost in its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic with the impending arrival of over 800,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine by the end of the month. The country, which has officially reported 6,583 positive cases, is bracing for the impact of the vaccine on its efforts to curb the spread of the virus and jumpstart economic recovery. Dr. Thuou Loi, the Director of International Health and Coordination and the official spokesperson of the Ministry of Health in South Sudan, shed light on the current situation in a recent interview with CNBC Africa. The nation, like many others across the globe, has been grappling with the challenges posed by the pandemic, and the arrival of the vaccine is a crucial step towards building immunity and resuming normalcy. South Sudanese authorities are keenly focused on ensuring the safe and efficient distribution of the vaccine, with plans in place to reach frontline healthcare workers and vulnerable populations first. Despite the initial hurdles posed by the pandemic, there is cautious optimism for a gradual economic rebound as the vaccination drive gains momentum. The government is closely monitoring the situation, with contingency plans in place should there be a need for stricter measures to contain the virus. The impact of the pandemic on South Sudan's economy has been significant, particularly due to the disruptions in supply chains and the reliance on imports for essential goods. The upcoming vaccine rollout is poised to provide much-needed relief and pave the way for a sustainable recovery in the country.