Zimbabwe has initiated an Oral Cholera Vaccination (OCV) campaign, conducted in collaboration with UNICEF and the World Health Organisation (WHO). The campaign commenced in the severely affected Kuwadzana suburb of Harare on Monday, targeting individuals aged one and above.

Health Minister Douglas Mombeshora disclosed that the campaign aims to reach 2.3 million people, with an initial receipt of 800 doses. The move comes as the country experiences a surge in cholera cases, partly attributed to rain, flooding, and increased population movement during the festive season.

In a speech delivered by Minister of State for Harare Metropolitan Province Charles Tawengwa on behalf of Minister Mombeshora, the health official acknowledged the long-standing impact of cholera on the nation since the outbreak in 2023. Mombeshora emphasized the effectiveness of cholera vaccines as a vital addition to existing health measures.

The vaccines are already strategically positioned in various provinces, cities, and heavily affected districts. The door-to-door campaign, including schools, is set to continue, with the next batch of doses expected on February 5.

Minister Mombeshora addressed the global demand for vaccines, attributing the staggered distribution in the country to a shortage caused by high demand in multiple affected countries in the region. He reassured the public of the vaccine’s safety, highlighting its proven track record in previous campaigns.

The financial support for these vaccines comes from GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance. Zimbabwe has witnessed over 20,000 suspected cholera cases and more than 400 confirmed and suspected deaths in the past year.

Dr. Jean-Marie Dangou, the WHO Zimbabwe Representative, stressed the importance of embracing this vaccination opportunity. The campaign’s primary operational strategy involves a house-to-house approach to minimize gatherings and curb the further spread of the disease.

UNICEF Zimbabwe Country Representative, Dr. Tajudeen Oyewale, urged prioritizing children in the vaccination drive, emphasizing the broader protective impact on both children and women in preventing new cholera infections.

Harare City Health Director Prosper Chonzi encouraged citizens to get vaccinated, emphasizing the vaccine’s 100 percent effectiveness and safety, with the added assurance that it is provided free of charge.