The People’s Republic of China has promised to give another 200,000 doses of its Sinopharm vaccine to The Gambia to fight coronavirus infections. 

The promise came as the Gambia battled a third wave of coronavirus.

Speaking at the handing over ceremony of 400,000 hand gloves at Kotu Medical Store, Chinese ambassador 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, including 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.

The ambassador 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 is still wreaking havoc in The Gambia and Africa”, adding that “in the face of COVID-19, Gambian governments and its people have taken strong measures to slow the spread of the virus.”

He said that the initiative partnership for Africa’s Development was jointly launched by China and African countries at the UN Security Council, it’s aimed at calling on the international community to support Africa in the public health sector.

The Health minister Dr Amdou samateh, congratulated the Chinese government for their continued 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 are worth over 31 million dalasi (US$ 620,000).

Reporting by Adama Makasuba