Archbishop Desmond Tutu and his wife Leah Tutu yesterday led South Africa’s senior citizens to the second phase of the government’s Covid-19 vaccine campaign.
The legendary couple received their jabs at Brooklyn Chest Hospital in Milnerton.
They were joined by 10 elders and 10 faith-based leaders all over 60.
The Arch looked healthy and jubilant and Leah, who was pushed on a wheelchair, said she was happy to finally have received the vaccine.
Sheikh Mohamed Carloo of the Muslim Judicial Council said: “I am feeling good, I did not even feel the jab so I urge you, please take the vaccine.”
Western Cape Health MEC Nomafrench Mbombo says the launch of Phase 2 was “history in the making” as this is the first vaccination programme open to public, following the rollout to healthcare workers.
Phase 2 is expected to end in October and the Health Department hopes to be able to vaccinate about 26 000 people a day once all vaccination centres are activated.
Premier Alan Winde says the vaccine is safe, as it has been rigorously tested and proven to provide excellent protection against serious Covid-19 related illnesses.
“This is a highly effective way to finally get back to seeing the people we love, doing the things we love, and ultimately, living again,” he says.
“But we cannot rollout vaccines, unless people register for them.
“This will ensure that we can complete the vaccinations of this vulnerable age category quickly and can then move on to the next age bracket.”