$7bn for Covid-19 response
Mukudzei Chingwere
Herald Reporter
Government has set aside $7 billion for the heightened fight against Covid-19, with authorities yesterday calling for the tightening of restrictions to control the geographical spread of the virus.
This follows a spike in infections this week when Zimbabwe recorded 1 365 positive cases and 34 deaths on Tuesday alone, amid reports of non-compliance with Covid-19 regulations in many parts of the country.
Health and Child Care Deputy Minister Dr John Mangwiro confirmed receipt of the funds, saying they will partly be used to recruit more personnel and procure equipment to respond to the virus.
“Government has cumulatively availed $7 billion to motivate and employ more health workers, procure testing kits, PPEs (personal protective equipment), sundries, sanitisers and to improve infrastructure.