The Gambia is expected to receive its first coronavirus vaccine in April, Gambiana has learned.

Last week, the Minister of Health Dr Ahmadou Samateh told lawmakers The Gambia has applied for COVAX, a global initiative aimed at helping lower-income countries obtain the vaccine. 

According to him, 20% of the country’s two million population will receive the vaccine and that their target is to vaccinate 70% of the population.

The U.K. and South African variants of the coronavirus were detected in the country. Two patients with the U.K. variant are already hospitalised sparking public concerns. 

But the Health ministry however called for calm saying the patients are receiving proper medical treatment.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba