“12 months ago, the first batch of COVID-19 vaccines delivered by COVAX landed in Accra, Ghana. Today, more than a billion doses have been delivered through the facility to low and lower middle-income countries around the world. These vaccines have saved millions of lives and have ensured that essential healthcare workers could continue to safely provide vital services to children and their families. Today’s milestone demonstrates what can be achieved in a short timeframe with coordinated global effort and a commitment to fair and equitable access to life saving vaccines.

“While much progress has been made this pandemic is far from over with a vast amount yet to be done to avoid further loss of life and the emergence of new variants that are a risk to us all. Only 12% of people in low-income countries have received one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and only 25% of health care workers across Africa are fully vaccinated. Over two years into this pandemic, health systems are at breaking point, putting children’s lives and futures at risk.

“The pandemic will not end one country at a time, and the UK Government can play a key role in protecting those who remain dangerously exposed. The UK should urgently allocate additional funding for vaccine delivery and access to COVID-19 tools and treatments. Critically, the UK must invest in strengthening the health systems that children and their communities depend on for essential services such as routine immunisations.

“A year ago, there was a breakthrough moment in the global effort to vaccinate the world, we now must see the ambition and action needed to deliver the final breakthrough that will end this pandemic.”

###

For more information, please contact:

UNICEF UK press office:   [email protected]  - 0207 375 6030

Yemi Lufadeju – [email protected]

About UNICEF

UNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone.

The UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) raises funds for UNICEF’s emergency and development work for children. We also promote and protect children’s rights in the UK and internationally. We are a UK charity, entirely funded by supporters.

United Kingdom Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK), Registered Charity No. 1072612 (England & Wales), SC043677 (Scotland)

For more information visit unicef.org.uk. Follow UNICEF UK on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.