How the Solidarity Fund plans to support SA’s vaccination programme

The Solidarity Fund has been pivotal in the fight against Covid-19 and to-date has collected R3.4 billion in donations. Some R2.3 billion has been disbursed. The fund was started as an initiative to unite Africans in the fight against COVID-19. Gloria Serobe, Chairman of the Solidarity Fund, recently received her second shot of the COVID-19 vaccine, emphasizing the importance of vaccination in combating the virus. She shared that the first shot went smoothly without any issues. The fund has received R3.39 billion of the total R3.4 billion raised and has allocated R3.37 billion to various projects. Of the allocated funds, R2.4 billion has been disbursed, with the difference due to the timelines and milestones of the projects. The fund has primarily focused on the health sector, allocating R2.7 billion, followed by R425 million for humanitarian aid and R210 million for behavioral change initiatives. As South Africa grapples with the third wave of Covid-19 and tighter restrictions, the Solidarity Fund is directing more resources towards supporting the vaccine rollout. In addition to funding vaccines, the fund is also investing in essential equipment such as high-care hospital equipment to assist with the influx of Covid-19 patients. The fund has played a crucial role in procuring essential medical equipment during the second and now third wave. Gloria Serobe highlighted the importance of addressing the increased demand for oxygen and ventilators in hospitals. The fund has supported the production of ventilators within the country and emphasized the significance of CPAP machines in easing the pressure on oxygen resources. While the focus has been on essential medical equipment and vaccine rollout support, the fund also recognizes the importance of mental health and has allocated significant funding to address the anxiety and concerns of the population during this challenging time. With ongoing challenges posed by the third wave, the Solidarity Fund remains committed to providing financial support where it is most needed. The fund's efforts have been instrumental in complementing the government's initiatives and filling critical gaps in the healthcare system.