The Southern African Liaison Office

The Southern African Liaison Office

International liaison, dialogue and research.

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SALO Public Dialogue: Access to the COVID-19 vaccine for migrants in South Africa: 25 March 2021

SALO

As the vaccines begin to trickle into South Africa and the South African government’s vaccination process gets underway, one of the major concerns has been whether migrants and undocumented nationals will have access to the vaccine. On this issue, the South African government has released conflicting statements. Remarks attributed to Dr Zweli Mkhize have prioritised South African nationals and permanent citizens, whereas a statement from President Cyril Ramaphosa affirmed the availability of the vaccine for everyone, regardless of their nationality or status of residency.

This event sought to consider the importance of vaccinating migrants and all people within the borders of South Africa. Our panellists unpacked the multi-layered nuances in the roll-out of the vaccine.