Millions of Covid-19 vaccine doses bought by Uganda have expired, leading to concerns about the country’s vaccination efforts. The doses, purchased during the peak of the pandemic, expired because few people took them. The government bought these vaccines in a bid to combat the virus, but low demand led to their wastage.
The Auditor General’s report revealed that over 10 million doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine expired in December. This marked an increase from the previous expiration of 5.6 million doses. Dr. Charles Ayume, chairperson of the Parliament Committee on Health, stated that the low uptake of vaccines contributed to their expiration.
The Health Ministry received funds to dispose of the expired vaccines, but the National Medical Stores (NMS) lacked the necessary budget. Dr. Ayume emphasized the need for funds to retrieve and destroy the expired vaccines to prevent further losses.
The NMS faces consistent underfunding, which hampers its ability to distribute life-saving drugs and supplies to hospitals across the country. This perpetual underfunding exacerbates the issue of vaccine wastage.
The procurement of vaccines during the pandemic lacked proper planning and relied on speculation rather than strategic decision-making. The government procured these vaccines using loaned funds, leading to questions about the efficiency of the process.
Meanwhile, concerns about the condition of Namboole Stadium have arisen. The stadium, earmarked for Uganda’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches, faces issues with compliance and completion of construction works. Despite assurances from the Sports Minister, the stadium remains unapproved by the African football governing body, Caf.
Minister Ogwang outlined the progress of construction works at Namboole Stadium but admitted to a shortfall in funding for the project. The delay in completing essential installations further complicates Uganda’s efforts to host international football matches.
The vaccine uptake in Uganda remains below target, despite extensive campaigns to promote vaccination.
According to Ogwang, the expiration of millions of vaccine doses underscores the challenges in achieving widespread immunization against Covid-19.
Concerns remain about the country’s ability to effectively manage its vaccination program and combat the ongoing pandemic.
