Nachipo) The factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy in the two countries are multifaceted and thus require equally complex strategies to be addressed. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in additional pressure to already-strained health systems; thus, vaccination has been an eagerly anticipated tool in the response. South Africa and Zimbabwe received their first deliveries of the vaccine in February 2021. Approximately 65-80% of each country s population has to be vaccinated to achieve herd immunity. However, several communities in Africa have always resisted vaccines, and surveys have reported concerns and doubts specific to the COVID-19 vaccine. This article unpacks the threat of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in South Africa and Zimbabwe, while also offering recommendations for COVID-19 vaccine communication strategies in these contexts.