Earlier this year, doctors and people in South Africa were bracing for the worst as a new coronavirus strain was surging across the country. But now the number of active cases in South Africa has dropped by 90 per cent in merely three months COVID-19 cases started dropping.

Drop in COVID-19 cases without vaccination campaign in South Africa

The protest over tuition fees in a South African university is spreading nationally, with the students union calling for shutting 26 public universities across the country from Monday.

“The failure of (higher education) minister Blade Nzimnande to respond positively to our demands as students&nbsp;has left us with no option but to declare a national shutdown effective from Monday, until all demands are met,”&nbsp;South African Union of Students (SAUS) said&nbsp;in a statement.

The union also condemned the brutality and violence by the South African Police Services (SAPS), which led to a killing of one civilian during protests against financial exclusion.

SAUS is demanding financial clearance and the clearance of historical debts for all students to ensure their smooth registration for the academic year.

It wants justice for the family of a person who was killed by police during protests in Wits University, and an end to police brutality. Other demands include immediate provision for post-graduate funding and&nbsp;allocation of National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funding for first time or new students.&nbsp;NSFAS&nbsp;is a government-run scheme that provides financial aid to poor undergraduate students.

SAUS also demanded zero percent fee increase for the 2021 academic year and sought&nbsp;free, quality, decolonised education for the poor and the working class.

It said the Student Representative Council (SRC) leaders are in support of the decision for the national shutdown of universities, and has urged all students across the country to join in the fight against financial exclusion. SRCs are&nbsp;the highest decision-making student body in universities.

In a separate statement, Senior Executive Team (SET) from the Wits University said they have met with the SRC and they will deliberate their demands with the members of the council and other stakeholders before engaging with the SRC on Monday afternoon.&nbsp;

It also confirmed that University South Africa (USAF) will be meeting with Vice Chancellors of 26 public universities on Monday to discuss some of these issues. The outcome of the meeting will be announced to various constituencies.&nbsp;

The protest over tuition fees in a South African university is spreading nationally, with the students union calling for shutting 26 public universities across the country from Monday.

The protest over tuition fees in a South African university is spreading nationally, with the students union calling for shutting 26 public universities across the country from Monday. “The failure of (higher education) minister Blade Nzimnande to respond positively to our demands as students has left us with no option but to declare a national shutdown effective from Monday, until all demands are met,” South African Union of Students (SAUS) said in a statement. The union also condemned the brutality and violence by the South African Police Services (SAPS), which led to a killing of one civilian during protests against financial exclusion. SAUS is demanding financial clearance and the clearance of historical debts for all students to ensure their smooth registration for the academic year. It wants justice for the family of a person who was killed by police during protests in Wits University, and an end to police brutality. Other demands include immediate provision for post-graduate funding and allocation of National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funding for first time or new students. NSFAS is a government-run scheme that provides financial aid to poor undergraduate students. SAUS also demanded zero percent fee increase for the 2021 academic year and sought free, quality, decolonised education for the poor and the working class. It said the Student Representative Council (SRC) leaders are in support of the decision for the national shutdown of universities, and has urged all students across the country to join in the fight against financial exclusion. SRCs are the highest decision-making student body in universities. In a separate statement, Senior Executive Team (SET) from the Wits University said they have met with the SRC and they will deliberate their demands with the members of the council and other stakeholders before engaging with the SRC on Monday afternoon. It also confirmed that University South Africa (USAF) will be meeting with Vice Chancellors of 26 public universities on Monday to discuss some of these issues. The outcome of the meeting will be announced to various constituencies.

South Africa student protests spread with calls for national varsity shutdown

South Africa`s Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini died on Friday, the royal family said in a statement. He was 72.

The king was hospitalised in a KwaZulu-Natal hospital for diabetes treatment, local media reported.

"Tragically, while still in hospital, His Majesty`s health took a turn for the worse and he subsequently passed away in the early hours of this morning," read the statement, issued by Inkatha Freedom Party founder and traditional prime minister to the Zulu monarch Prince Mangosutho Buthelezi, on behalf of the royal family.

"On behalf of the Royal Family, we thank the nation for your continued prayers and support in this most difficult time."

South Africa`s Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini died on Friday, the royal family said in a statement. He was 72. The king was hospitalised in a KwaZulu-Natal hospital for diabetes treatment, local media reported.

South Africa`s Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini died on Friday, the royal family said in a statement. He was 72. The king was hospitalised in a KwaZulu-Natal hospital for diabetes treatment, local media reported. "Tragically, while still in hospital, His Majesty`s health took a turn for the worse and he subsequently passed away in the early hours of this morning," read the statement, issued by Inkatha Freedom Party founder and traditional prime minister to the Zulu monarch Prince Mangosutho Buthelezi, on behalf of the royal family. "On behalf of the Royal Family, we thank the nation for your continued prayers and support in this most difficult time."

South Africa's Zulu King Zwelithini dies, royal family says

South Africa's GDP grew quarter and quarter in three months ending in December but the economy recorded its biggest annual contraction in seven decades last year.

World Business Watch: South Africa’s economy shrank by most in century last year

Students and civilians are currently protesting in the area of the University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg’s Braamfontein neighborhood

1 men shot dead in SA tuition aid Protest

One person was shot dead on Wednesday&nbsp;as South African police and protesting students from Wits University in Braamfontein engaged in a violent clash over admissions.

Protesting students have blocked roads in Johannesburg CBD (central business district) with burning tyres and rocks. They&nbsp;are demanding that all students, regardless of their outstanding fees, should be able to register for the new academic year.

As the standoff continued for the second straight day, police fired rubber bullets and used tear gas to disperse the students who are currently protesting over financial exclusion from the university.

The police have not yet responded, but it has been confirmed that the person who died is not a student. Senior executives from Wits University said in a statement that they are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of a 35-year-old man in the Braamfontein CBD outside of the institution this morning.

"The university extends its condolences to the family of the deceased. The university condemns any form of violence and call on all persons to keep calm during this very difficult time,” it said.&nbsp;

The university also noted with deep concern the escalation of the situation which is regrettable, and called on all persons to remain calm during this difficult time.&nbsp;

“The university remains committed to seeking creative, peaceful solutions to any outstanding issues in the higher education sector,” the statement said.&nbsp;

Higher Education Minister&nbsp;Blade Nzimande on Monday said the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is not able to commit to funding students without the requisite budget available to support this commitment.&nbsp;

However, he said that the department and the treasury have been working on funding options. “We are doing everything possible to resolve this issue as a matter of extreme urgency.” Nzimande said.&nbsp;

One person was shot dead on Wednesday as South African police and protesting students from Wits University in Braamfontein engaged in a violent clash over admissions.

One person was shot dead on Wednesday as South African police and protesting students from Wits University in Braamfontein engaged in a violent clash over admissions. Protesting students have blocked roads in Johannesburg CBD (central business district) with burning tyres and rocks. They are demanding that all students, regardless of their outstanding fees, should be able to register for the new academic year. As the standoff continued for the second straight day, police fired rubber bullets and used tear gas to disperse the students who are currently protesting over financial exclusion from the university. The police have not yet responded, but it has been confirmed that the person who died is not a student. Senior executives from Wits University said in a statement that they are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of a 35-year-old man in the Braamfontein CBD outside of the institution this morning. "The university extends its condolences to the family of the deceased. The university condemns any form of violence and call on all persons to keep calm during this very difficult time,” it said. The university also noted with deep concern the escalation of the situation which is regrettable, and called on all persons to remain calm during this difficult time. “The university remains committed to seeking creative, peaceful solutions to any outstanding issues in the higher education sector,” the statement said. Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande on Monday said the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is not able to commit to funding students without the requisite budget available to support this commitment. However, he said that the department and the treasury have been working on funding options. “We are doing everything possible to resolve this issue as a matter of extreme urgency.” Nzimande said.

One killed in police-student standoff in South Africa

In a move to bolster an economy ravaged by the pandemic, the South African government plans to formalize the Cannabis sector. WION tells you more.

Exclusive: South African government plans to formalize Cannabis market

WhatsApp once again has landed in trouble for privacy concerns. Regulators have now eyed the contact sharing policy of WhatsApp and told the firm that this will not be allowed and is against the laws.

South Africa: Contact info can't be shared

A new preliminary study -- based on a small sample -- has suggested that people previously infected by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid-19</a>&nbsp;variant identified in South Africa may have better immunity against other coronavirus mutations, experts said Wednesday.

The findings, from a yet to be peer-reviewed research by the team of South African scientists who discovered the 501Y.V2 variant, raise hopes that vaccines modelled on the strain could protect against future mutations.

Only four percent of a sample of 55 patients who had 501Y.V2 failed to neutralise infection from the original coronavirus variant, according to data presented by a cohort of scientists under the Network Genomic Surveillance South Africa (NGS-SA).

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/african-nations-start-covax-aided-vaccination-drive-367814/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Identified late last year, the variant became the dominant strain in the African nation worst hit by the pandemic, fuelling the second wave of infections and delaying the start of vaccinations in February.

Top virologist Tulio de Oliveira, told a video conference attended by senior government ministers that "the 501Y.V2 can produce a high level of antibodies that can neutralise itself," he said, adding that the immune response outperforms previous variants.

Health Minister Zweli Mkhize told the same meeting that the discovery was "good news for all" as it presented a huge boost to the control of the pandemic.

Coronavirus mutations -- some more contagious -- had put a damper on global vaccination programmes after existing shots were found to offer less protection against them.

Manufacturers have in recent weeks raced to tweak their formulas in response to the spread of newer variants.

US biotechnology company Moderna last week said it will begin in mid-March a clinical trial of a version of its vaccine specific to the South Africa variant.

Top government advisor and leading epidemiologist Salim Abdool Karim explained that shots developed by Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna uses mRNA technology to elicit antibody production, and that the recent development bodes well for achieving immunity.

"These findings are basically telling us that we have a good prospect of success if we make a vaccine based on it," he said.&nbsp;

A new preliminary study -- based on a small sample -- has suggested that people previously infected by the Covid-19 variant identified in South Africa may have better immunity against other coronavirus mutations, experts said Wednesday.

A new preliminary study -- based on a small sample -- has suggested that people previously infected by the Covid-19 variant identified in South Africa may have better immunity against other coronavirus mutations, experts said Wednesday. The findings, from a yet to be peer-reviewed research by the team of South African scientists who discovered the 501Y.V2 variant, raise hopes that vaccines modelled on the strain could protect against future mutations. Only four percent of a sample of 55 patients who had 501Y.V2 failed to neutralise infection from the original coronavirus variant, according to data presented by a cohort of scientists under the Network Genomic Surveillance South Africa (NGS-SA). Watch | Identified late last year, the variant became the dominant strain in the African nation worst hit by the pandemic, fuelling the second wave of infections and delaying the start of vaccinations in February. Top virologist Tulio de Oliveira, told a video conference attended by senior government ministers that "the 501Y.V2 can produce a high level of antibodies that can neutralise itself," he said, adding that the immune response outperforms previous variants. Health Minister Zweli Mkhize told the same meeting that the discovery was "good news for all" as it presented a huge boost to the control of the pandemic. Coronavirus mutations -- some more contagious -- had put a damper on global vaccination programmes after existing shots were found to offer less protection against them. Manufacturers have in recent weeks raced to tweak their formulas in response to the spread of newer variants. US biotechnology company Moderna last week said it will begin in mid-March a clinical trial of a version of its vaccine specific to the South Africa variant. Top government advisor and leading epidemiologist Salim Abdool Karim explained that shots developed by Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna uses mRNA technology to elicit antibody production, and that the recent development bodes well for achieving immunity. "These findings are basically telling us that we have a good prospect of success if we make a vaccine based on it," he said.

Study suggests South Africa variant could offer better immunity

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that the country will be going down to level 1 lockdown from the current level 3, taking into account the lower <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> numbers.&nbsp;

“Based on an assessment of the current state of the pandemic in the country, Cabinet decided earlier today to move the country from coronavirus alert level 3 to alert level 1,” Ramaphosa said during his address to the nation on Sunday.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-receives-second-batch-of-jj-vaccines-366627" hreflang="en">South Africa receives second batch of J&amp;J vaccines</a>

The new alert level will come into effect later this evening (late Sunday) once the regulations have been gazetted. The hours of the curfew will now be from 12 midnight to 4 am, he said.&nbsp;

However, he cautioned that easing restrictions does not mean people should let their guard down. Under Alert Level 1, there are still few remaining restrictions because the new variant, known as 501Y.V2 is still the dominant variant in the country.&nbsp;

Under level 1, gatherings will be permitted, subject to limitations on size, adherence to social distancing and other health protocols. These will include religious, social, political and cultural gatherings.&nbsp;“The maximum number of people allowed at any gathering is 100 people indoors or 250 people outdoors,” Ramaphosa said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unemployment-in-south-africa-marks-highest-jump-since-2008-365695" hreflang="en">Unemployment in South Africa marks highest jump since 2008</a>

The sale of alcohol will be permitted, according to normal license provisions. However, no alcohol may be sold during the hours of curfew.

Wearing of mask in public places is still mandatory and failure to wear a mask, when required, remains a criminal offence.&nbsp;

The 33 land border posts that have been closed throughout this period will remain closed, while the other 20 will remain open.&nbsp;Only five airports will be open for international travel with standard infection control measures. These are OR Tambo, Cape Town, King Shaka, Kruger Mpumalanga and Lanseria airport.&nbsp;

According to the Department of Health’s latest statistics, as of Saturday, the cumulative number of confirmed COVID-19 cases stood at 1.5 million and deaths at 49,941.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that the country will be going down to level 1 lockdown from the current level 3, taking into account the lower COVID-19 numbers.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that the country will be going down to level 1 lockdown from the current level 3, taking into account the lower COVID-19 numbers. “Based on an assessment of the current state of the pandemic in the country, Cabinet decided earlier today to move the country from coronavirus alert level 3 to alert level 1,” Ramaphosa said during his address to the nation on Sunday. Also read | South Africa receives second batch of J&J vaccines The new alert level will come into effect later this evening (late Sunday) once the regulations have been gazetted. The hours of the curfew will now be from 12 midnight to 4 am, he said. However, he cautioned that easing restrictions does not mean people should let their guard down. Under Alert Level 1, there are still few remaining restrictions because the new variant, known as 501Y.V2 is still the dominant variant in the country. Under level 1, gatherings will be permitted, subject to limitations on size, adherence to social distancing and other health protocols. These will include religious, social, political and cultural gatherings. “The maximum number of people allowed at any gathering is 100 people indoors or 250 people outdoors,” Ramaphosa said. Also read | Unemployment in South Africa marks highest jump since 2008 The sale of alcohol will be permitted, according to normal license provisions. However, no alcohol may be sold during the hours of curfew. Wearing of mask in public places is still mandatory and failure to wear a mask, when required, remains a criminal offence. The 33 land border posts that have been closed throughout this period will remain closed, while the other 20 will remain open. Only five airports will be open for international travel with standard infection control measures. These are OR Tambo, Cape Town, King Shaka, Kruger Mpumalanga and Lanseria airport. According to the Department of Health’s latest statistics, as of Saturday, the cumulative number of confirmed COVID-19 cases stood at 1.5 million and deaths at 49,941.

South Africa goes to level 1 lockdown as Covid cases decline

Along with providing energy the solar power industry also provides employment to thousands of people in the country. However, the shortage of solar panels and the decline in the import trade break the evolving power industry.

South Africa facing shortage in Solar Panels

South Africa's second tranche of 80,000 Johnson &amp; Johnson <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">COVID-19 vaccine </a>from Brussels touched down at OR Tambo International airport on Saturday morning.&nbsp;

The second batch of vaccines is reserved for frontline healthcare workers. The single-shot Johnson and Johnson vaccine has been shown to be 82 per cent effective in preventing severe illness from the COVID variant first discovered in South Africa.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-chief-ghebreyesus-praises-india-pm-modi-for-covid-vaccine-effort-366417" hreflang="en">WHO chief Ghebreyesus praises India, PM Modi for Covid vaccine effort</a>

The jabs have been taken to a secure facility in Gauteng from where it will be distributed to vaccine centres in provinces.&nbsp;

This second batch of vaccines is part of 500,000 jabs South Africa is getting for research purposes.

By the end of Friday, the country had used 63,648 vaccines out of the 80,000 that arrived in the country on February 01. The health department says about 12,000 health workers are getting vaccinated in a day now.

As of February 26, South Africa recorded 1.5 million positive cases and 49,784 deaths, government statistics showed.&nbsp;

South Africa's second tranche of 80,000 Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine from Brussels touched down at OR Tambo International airport on Saturday morning. The second batch of vaccines is reserved for frontline healthcare workers.

South Africa's second tranche of 80,000 Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine from Brussels touched down at OR Tambo International airport on Saturday morning. The second batch of vaccines is reserved for frontline healthcare workers. The single-shot Johnson and Johnson vaccine has been shown to be 82 per cent effective in preventing severe illness from the COVID variant first discovered in South Africa. Also read| WHO chief Ghebreyesus praises India, PM Modi for Covid vaccine effort The jabs have been taken to a secure facility in Gauteng from where it will be distributed to vaccine centres in provinces. This second batch of vaccines is part of 500,000 jabs South Africa is getting for research purposes. By the end of Friday, the country had used 63,648 vaccines out of the 80,000 that arrived in the country on February 01. The health department says about 12,000 health workers are getting vaccinated in a day now. As of February 26, South Africa recorded 1.5 million positive cases and 49,784 deaths, government statistics showed.

South Africa receives second batch of J&J vaccines

US firm Moderna said on Wednesday that its new vaccine that targets South African variant of coronavirus is ready for testing.

Moderna vaccine for South Africa Variant ready

In a major announcement, US pharma Moderna said that its new vaccine that targets South African variant of Coronavirus is now ready for testing.

Coronavirus Jab: Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine for South Africa variant ready for testing

As many as 57 members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) have supported India's proposal for Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) waiver on Covid-19 vaccines, said Union Minister of Railways Piyush Goyal on Thursday.&nbsp;

Speaking at the sixth edition of the International Conference on Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Industry - 'India 2021 and India Medical Devices 2021' via video conferencing, the Union Minister invoked to make next decade, the decade of India.&nbsp;

He further said that India along with South Africa is at the forefront, in a proposal introduced in October 2020, before the WTO in the TRIPS council, for a waiver during Covid-19 to allow more countries to get equitable access to medicines. "We now have 57 WTO members supporting us," he said.&nbsp;

Calling upon the pharmaceutical industry to show a big heart across the world and support the TRIPS waiver that India proposed at WTO, he said that this will help the entire world come out of the pandemic much faster.&nbsp;

The minister said that the proposal has put the developed world under pressure, who are trying to protect the interests of some pharmaceutical companies.&nbsp;

"India has seen golden period for healthcare in last few years. Can we make next decade, the decade of India, where we decide that between 2021 and 2030, entire world should be following Indian standards?," said the Union Minister.&nbsp;

Talking over the achievements of the Indian pharma industry during the Covid-19 pandemic and the speed with which they produced the vaccines, he stated that "The pharmaceutical industry is the class example of the glass half full. You have done wonderful work. The nation and world will always be indebted to the Indian Pharma Industry, often called the 'Pharmacy of the World'. But I could even call it 'Health Capital of World'."&nbsp;

"And more so, the contribution that Indian Pharma companies provided to the world. Also, because I can see, that very soon given collective efforts of the industry, all the stakeholders, the minister and his ministry and the entire Government of India support and the blessings of Prime Minister Narendra Modi put a very very bright future for your industry," he added.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been lauded by the global leaders as India continues to lead in assisting countries with vaccines.&nbsp;

"Can we take it upon ourselves that this is going to be defining decade both for the pharma industry and the country as move forward to truly achieve the rightful place of India in the comity of nations?" asked Goyal.&nbsp;

More than 25 nations across the world have already received Made-in-India vaccines and 49 more countries will be supplied in the coming days, ranging from Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean to Africa, South-East Asia and the Pacific Islands, he announced.&nbsp;

As many as 57 members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) have supported India's proposal for Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) waiver on Covid-19 vaccines, said Union Minister of Railways Piyush Goyal on Thursday.

As many as 57 members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) have supported India's proposal for Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) waiver on Covid-19 vaccines, said Union Minister of Railways Piyush Goyal on Thursday. Speaking at the sixth edition of the International Conference on Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Industry - 'India 2021 and India Medical Devices 2021' via video conferencing, the Union Minister invoked to make next decade, the decade of India. He further said that India along with South Africa is at the forefront, in a proposal introduced in October 2020, before the WTO in the TRIPS council, for a waiver during Covid-19 to allow more countries to get equitable access to medicines. "We now have 57 WTO members supporting us," he said. Calling upon the pharmaceutical industry to show a big heart across the world and support the TRIPS waiver that India proposed at WTO, he said that this will help the entire world come out of the pandemic much faster. The minister said that the proposal has put the developed world under pressure, who are trying to protect the interests of some pharmaceutical companies. "India has seen golden period for healthcare in last few years. Can we make next decade, the decade of India, where we decide that between 2021 and 2030, entire world should be following Indian standards?," said the Union Minister. Talking over the achievements of the Indian pharma industry during the Covid-19 pandemic and the speed with which they produced the vaccines, he stated that "The pharmaceutical industry is the class example of the glass half full. You have done wonderful work. The nation and world will always be indebted to the Indian Pharma Industry, often called the 'Pharmacy of the World'. But I could even call it 'Health Capital of World'." "And more so, the contribution that Indian Pharma companies provided to the world. Also, because I can see, that very soon given collective efforts of the industry, all the stakeholders, the minister and his ministry and the entire Government of India support and the blessings of Prime Minister Narendra Modi put a very very bright future for your industry," he added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been lauded by the global leaders as India continues to lead in assisting countries with vaccines. "Can we take it upon ourselves that this is going to be defining decade both for the pharma industry and the country as move forward to truly achieve the rightful place of India in the comity of nations?" asked Goyal. More than 25 nations across the world have already received Made-in-India vaccines and 49 more countries will be supplied in the coming days, ranging from Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean to Africa, South-East Asia and the Pacific Islands, he announced.

India's TRIPS waiver proposal at WTO gets a boost, secures support of 57 nations

Since last year, India and South Africa have been pushing for a ban on vaccine patents. Only to be stonewalled by the rich countries. A last-ditch attempt is now underway to unlock the vaccine patents.

The fight for Covid-19 vaccine patents rages on

South African tax payers can breathe a sigh of relief as the finance minister in his 2021 budget announced they would not introduce any new taxes this year.

“We agree that tax increases must be kept to a minimum as we stabilise our public finances. We have chosen not to introduce the tax measures initially proposed in the October Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS),” Tito Mboweni said.&nbsp;

He added the government would withdraw previous proposal to raise R40 billion in additional revenue.&nbsp;

This year’s budget comes at a difficult time when the country is trying to adjust its economic cracks after a severe Covid-19 lockdown. It also comes as the country prepares for the biggest vaccination programme in history.

The finance minister said the government is allocating more than R10 billion for purchase and delivery of vaccines over the next two years and this will impact public purse.&nbsp;

“We increased the contingency reserve from R5 billion to R12 billion to make provision for the further purchase of vaccines and to cater for other emergencies,” he added.&nbsp;

South Africa is planning to vaccinate at least 67 per cent of its population to achieve herd immunity.&nbsp;

Mboweni said, "The country’s total consolidated spending is expected to be R2 trillion each year over the medium term, with the majority of spending going towards social services."

On the economic outlook front, the minister said the global economic growth is expected to rebound to 5.5 per cent in 2021 before moderating slightly to 4.2 per cent in 2022, taking cues from the expected rollout of Covid-19 vaccines and other additional policy initiatives.

South African economy is expected to rebound by 3.3 per cent this year, following a 7.2 per cent contraction in 2020.

China is expected to grow at 8.1 per cent in 2021, while India will achieve a growth rate of 11.5 per cent in 2021.

The minister has also announced an 8 per cent increase in excise duties on alcohol and tobacco products saying excessive alcohol consumption can lead to negative social and health problems.&nbsp;

South African tax payers can breathe a sigh of relief as the finance minister in his 2021 budget announced they would not introduce any new taxes this year. “We agree that tax increases must be kept to a minimum as we stabilise our public finances.

South African tax payers can breathe a sigh of relief as the finance minister in his 2021 budget announced they would not introduce any new taxes this year. “We agree that tax increases must be kept to a minimum as we stabilise our public finances. We have chosen not to introduce the tax measures initially proposed in the October Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS),” Tito Mboweni said. He added the government would withdraw previous proposal to raise R40 billion in additional revenue. This year’s budget comes at a difficult time when the country is trying to adjust its economic cracks after a severe Covid-19 lockdown. It also comes as the country prepares for the biggest vaccination programme in history. The finance minister said the government is allocating more than R10 billion for purchase and delivery of vaccines over the next two years and this will impact public purse. “We increased the contingency reserve from R5 billion to R12 billion to make provision for the further purchase of vaccines and to cater for other emergencies,” he added. South Africa is planning to vaccinate at least 67 per cent of its population to achieve herd immunity. Mboweni said, "The country’s total consolidated spending is expected to be R2 trillion each year over the medium term, with the majority of spending going towards social services." On the economic outlook front, the minister said the global economic growth is expected to rebound to 5.5 per cent in 2021 before moderating slightly to 4.2 per cent in 2022, taking cues from the expected rollout of Covid-19 vaccines and other additional policy initiatives. South African economy is expected to rebound by 3.3 per cent this year, following a 7.2 per cent contraction in 2020. China is expected to grow at 8.1 per cent in 2021, while India will achieve a growth rate of 11.5 per cent in 2021. The minister has also announced an 8 per cent increase in excise duties on alcohol and tobacco products saying excessive alcohol consumption can lead to negative social and health problems.

No new taxes to be announced in South Africa's 2021 budget

India & South Africa have been pushing a proposal to temporarily suspend vaccine patents. But, the rich countries - accused of hoarding supplies, are blocking the proposal. A last-ditch attempt is now underway to secure the waiver. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Why India wants vaccine patents to be waived

Patents are slowing the vaccinations down. Since last year, India and South Africa have been pushing for a ban on vaccine patents. Only to be stonewalled by the rich countries. A last-ditch attempt is now underway to unlock the vaccine patents. &nbsp;

The world's leading powers are struggling as they are at the mercy of vaccine makers. The supply of shots has been slow as there aren't enough vials to go around. &nbsp;

More than seven billion people are to be vaccinated but only a handful of companies can produce vaccines.&nbsp;

The reason is vaccine patents. Only companies with patents can produce vaccines as their numbers are limited, so is their capacity. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Why can't more vaccine makers produce the coronavirus shot? &nbsp;&nbsp;

India and South Africa are pushing for it. They want a temporary waiver on vaccine patents. India and South Africa have moved a proposal at the World Trade Organisation but it did not find many takers. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-india-wants-vaccine-patents-to-be-waived-365768">WATCH|</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-india-wants-vaccine-patents-to-be-waived-365768/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In October last year, India and South Africa asked WTO to waive some provisions in a trade agreement. It would allow countries to waive off intellectual property rights on diagnostics, medicines and vaccines. It would have been a temporary measure to control the pandemic but rich countries want to make profits from the pandemic. This month, they blocked this proposal as they are also hoarding vaccines. They made millions of pre-orders and now, they don't want to share the patent.&nbsp;

The list includes the United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union. They have all opposed the proposal. They say it would stifle innovation. &nbsp;

A patent ban would rob big pharma companies of the incentive to make huge investments in research and development. So, is the proposal dead? Not yet. &nbsp;&nbsp;

India and South Africa along with other co-sponsors are now reaching out to WTO members individually. Reports say, the outline, scope and time frame for the patent waiver is being discussed.&nbsp;

The race to grab vaccines has divided the world. These divisions are showing at the WTO too.&nbsp;

Developed countries like Japan, Canada, the United Kingdom and Switzerland are saying they will not back the patent waiver while the developing world supports it.&nbsp;

Countries that still need their share of shots are co-sponsoring India and South Africa's proposal. It includes Bolivia, Eswatini, Kenya, Egypt, Mozambique, Mongolia, Pakistan, Venezuela and Zimbabwe.&nbsp;

Reports say a final call on the proposal may be taken this month. This decision will dictate for how long humanity will have to fight the coronavirus. The more vaccines we have, the sooner the pandemic will end.&nbsp;

Patents are slowing the vaccinations down. Since last year, India and South Africa have been pushing for a ban on vaccine patents. Only to be stonewalled by the rich countries.

Patents are slowing the vaccinations down. Since last year, India and South Africa have been pushing for a ban on vaccine patents. Only to be stonewalled by the rich countries. A last-ditch attempt is now underway to unlock the vaccine patents. The world's leading powers are struggling as they are at the mercy of vaccine makers. The supply of shots has been slow as there aren't enough vials to go around. More than seven billion people are to be vaccinated but only a handful of companies can produce vaccines. The reason is vaccine patents. Only companies with patents can produce vaccines as their numbers are limited, so is their capacity. Why can't more vaccine makers produce the coronavirus shot? India and South Africa are pushing for it. They want a temporary waiver on vaccine patents. India and South Africa have moved a proposal at the World Trade Organisation but it did not find many takers. WATCH| In October last year, India and South Africa asked WTO to waive some provisions in a trade agreement. It would allow countries to waive off intellectual property rights on diagnostics, medicines and vaccines. It would have been a temporary measure to control the pandemic but rich countries want to make profits from the pandemic. This month, they blocked this proposal as they are also hoarding vaccines. They made millions of pre-orders and now, they don't want to share the patent. The list includes the United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union. They have all opposed the proposal. They say it would stifle innovation. A patent ban would rob big pharma companies of the incentive to make huge investments in research and development. So, is the proposal dead? Not yet. India and South Africa along with other co-sponsors are now reaching out to WTO members individually. Reports say, the outline, scope and time frame for the patent waiver is being discussed. The race to grab vaccines has divided the world. These divisions are showing at the WTO too. Developed countries like Japan, Canada, the United Kingdom and Switzerland are saying they will not back the patent waiver while the developing world supports it. Countries that still need their share of shots are co-sponsoring India and South Africa's proposal. It includes Bolivia, Eswatini, Kenya, Egypt, Mozambique, Mongolia, Pakistan, Venezuela and Zimbabwe. Reports say a final call on the proposal may be taken this month. This decision will dictate for how long humanity will have to fight the coronavirus. The more vaccines we have, the sooner the pandemic will end.

More than 70% of South Africans were found to be living in a household receiving a government grant in October. Since then, a number of COVID-19 relief payments have ended.

South Africa: Hunger rate plunges to 23% despite Covid relief payments

Around half of South Africa's population may have already been infected with the novel coronavirus, a study suggests.

Samples taken from almost 5,000 blood donors across four South African provinces in January showed that between 32 and 63 per cent had antibodies to the coronavirus.

The figure compares with clinically confirmed case rates of just 2 to 3 per cent, according to South African research that was released online last week, but has not yet completed peer review.

People with confirmed or suspected Covid-19 are unable to donate blood for 14 days, and therefore less likely to be sampled.

Antibodies are a telltale of an individual's exposure to the virus, but not a confirmation that the person has fallen sick from it.

Most antibodies were detected in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. Both were epicentres of South Africa's second infection wave when it started in December.

South Africa kicked off its long-awaited inoculation campaign on Wednesday with jabs developed by US pharmaceutical giant Johnson &amp; Johnson.

The country has so far recorded close to 1.5 million coronavirus cases, of which just under 48,500 have been fatal -- the highest toll in Africa.

Steep estimates that South Africa's Covid-19 mortality stands around 0.4 per cent -- a figure derived from an Infection Fatality Rate published by London's Imperial College for modelling.

The South African variant of the coronavirus, which is more transmissible and more resistant to existing vaccines than its original form, accounts for some 90 per cent of the country's second wave of cases.

Around half of South Africa's population may have already been infected with the novel coronavirus, a study suggests. Samples taken from almost 5,000 blood donors across four South African provinces in January showed that between 32 and 63 per cent had antibodies to the coronavirus.

Around half of South Africa's population may have already been infected with the novel coronavirus, a study suggests. Samples taken from almost 5,000 blood donors across four South African provinces in January showed that between 32 and 63 per cent had antibodies to the coronavirus. The figure compares with clinically confirmed case rates of just 2 to 3 per cent, according to South African research that was released online last week, but has not yet completed peer review. People with confirmed or suspected Covid-19 are unable to donate blood for 14 days, and therefore less likely to be sampled. Antibodies are a telltale of an individual's exposure to the virus, but not a confirmation that the person has fallen sick from it. Most antibodies were detected in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. Both were epicentres of South Africa's second infection wave when it started in December. South Africa kicked off its long-awaited inoculation campaign on Wednesday with jabs developed by US pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson. The country has so far recorded close to 1.5 million coronavirus cases, of which just under 48,500 have been fatal -- the highest toll in Africa. Steep estimates that South Africa's Covid-19 mortality stands around 0.4 per cent -- a figure derived from an Infection Fatality Rate published by London's Imperial College for modelling. The South African variant of the coronavirus, which is more transmissible and more resistant to existing vaccines than its original form, accounts for some 90 per cent of the country's second wave of cases.

One in two South Africans infected with coronavirus, study says

Ministers comment drew strong criticism on social media and some political parties even called on her to retract her comment and publicly apologise.

South African minister Motshekga under criticism for rape comment

South Africa’s Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga has come under heavy criticism after the controversial rape comment she made on Monday at a school.&nbsp;

While addressing students at a school in Pretoria, Minister said, “this government has prioritized education because we know that it’s only through education that we can deal with some of our challenges that are here because educated man won’t rape aankeri (isn’t it?).”&nbsp;

Ministers comment drew strong criticism on social media and some political parties even called on&nbsp;her to retract her comment and publicly apologise.&nbsp;

However, the Minister in her statement said that it was taken out of context.&nbsp;

“Rape is indeed about power, hence the department had programmes to educate the boy child to appreciate the importance of his to deal with power relations between men and women from a young age,” she said.&nbsp;

This comment and&nbsp;controversy come at a time when South Africa is battling to fight the scourge of gender-based violence and sexual assault, which the president of the country also dubs as “the second pandemic.”

The country’s opposition party, Democratic Alliance said the following - “Minister Motshekga’s rape comments yesterday was clearly irresponsible, uncalled for and insensitive... We think she should educate herself about the complexity of the issue.”

Baxolile Nodada, DA shadow minister of basic education said people like her of high calibre such as the minister must be able to read the temperament, educate themselves and not make misleading statements like educated men do not rape because that is not true.&nbsp;

It is estimated that 40 per cent of women in South Africa will be raped at some point, while only 8.6 per cent&nbsp;of perpetrators are convicted. Africa Check says this number is unproven as accurate rape statistics are hard to produce due to a lack of reporting.&nbsp;

South Africa’s Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga has come under heavy criticism after the controversial rape comment she made on Monday at a school. While addressing students at a school in Pretoria, Minister said, “this government has prioritized education because we know that it’s only through education that we can deal with some of our challenges that are here because educated man won’t rape aankeri (isn’t it?

South Africa’s Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga has come under heavy criticism after the controversial rape comment she made on Monday at a school. While addressing students at a school in Pretoria, Minister said, “this government has prioritized education because we know that it’s only through education that we can deal with some of our challenges that are here because educated man won’t rape aankeri (isn’t it?).” Ministers comment drew strong criticism on social media and some political parties even called on her to retract her comment and publicly apologise. However, the Minister in her statement said that it was taken out of context. “Rape is indeed about power, hence the department had programmes to educate the boy child to appreciate the importance of his to deal with power relations between men and women from a young age,” she said. This comment and controversy come at a time when South Africa is battling to fight the scourge of gender-based violence and sexual assault, which the president of the country also dubs as “the second pandemic.” The country’s opposition party, Democratic Alliance said the following - “Minister Motshekga’s rape comments yesterday was clearly irresponsible, uncalled for and insensitive... We think she should educate herself about the complexity of the issue.” Baxolile Nodada, DA shadow minister of basic education said people like her of high calibre such as the minister must be able to read the temperament, educate themselves and not make misleading statements like educated men do not rape because that is not true. It is estimated that 40 per cent of women in South Africa will be raped at some point, while only 8.6 per cent of perpetrators are convicted. Africa Check says this number is unproven as accurate rape statistics are hard to produce due to a lack of reporting.

South Africa has recorded the highest number of coronavirus infections and deaths on the African continent

South Africa to reopen 20 land border crossings next week

South Africa has decided to reopen 20 land borders on Monday with a new set of rules.&nbsp;

In a statement on Saturday, Department of Home Affairs said, the move follows a cabinet decision to reopen the 20 land borders to ordinary travel.&nbsp;

The country’s land borders have been closed since January 11 in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-extends-national-state-of-disaster-by-another-month-362876" hreflang="en">South Africa extends national state of disaster by another month</a>

The Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi is scheduled to be at Lebombo Border Post, Deputy Minister Njabulo Nzuza at Beitbridge and Director-General Tommy Makhode at Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg on Monday, February 15, 2021, when the land ports of entry reopen, the statement said.&nbsp;

Minister Motsoaledi said any person presenting themselves at any of the borders with fake COVID-19 certificates will be denied entry and barred from visiting South Africa for a period of at least five years.

“We appeal to travellers to ensure that they have all the requisite travel documents, including valid Covid-19 tests, when they present themselves to officials at our borders. Truck drivers should adhere to laws, regulations and agreements in place in the border area. This will go a long way in minimising congestion,” Minister Motsoaledi said.&nbsp;

South Africa has decided to reopen 20 land borders on Monday with a new set of rules. In a statement on Saturday, Department of Home Affairs said, the move follows a cabinet decision to reopen the 20 land borders to ordinary travel.

South Africa has decided to reopen 20 land borders on Monday with a new set of rules. In a statement on Saturday, Department of Home Affairs said, the move follows a cabinet decision to reopen the 20 land borders to ordinary travel. The country’s land borders have been closed since January 11 in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Also read| South Africa extends national state of disaster by another month The Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi is scheduled to be at Lebombo Border Post, Deputy Minister Njabulo Nzuza at Beitbridge and Director-General Tommy Makhode at Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg on Monday, February 15, 2021, when the land ports of entry reopen, the statement said. Minister Motsoaledi said any person presenting themselves at any of the borders with fake COVID-19 certificates will be denied entry and barred from visiting South Africa for a period of at least five years. “We appeal to travellers to ensure that they have all the requisite travel documents, including valid Covid-19 tests, when they present themselves to officials at our borders. Truck drivers should adhere to laws, regulations and agreements in place in the border area. This will go a long way in minimising congestion,” Minister Motsoaledi said.

South Africa to reopen 20 land borders

South African cabinet has announced the extension of the country’s national state of disaster by one more month. In its statement, the government said that the national state of disaster will now continue until March 15.

South Africa extends national state of disaster by another month

South African cabinet has announced the extension of the country’s national state of disaster by one more month.&nbsp;

In its statement, the government said that the national state of disaster will now continue until March 15.&nbsp;

The country will mark one year since the national state of disaster was first implemented last year in March in response to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

The national state of disaster will be gazetted and officially extended from February 15 to March 15 by Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) Minister, Nkosozana Dlamini-Zuma.&nbsp;

These regulations are set out to stop the further spread of Covid-19 and minimize its effects. Anyone found in violation may be fined or imprisoned.&nbsp;

As on Wednesday, South Africa reported 1.48 million Covid-19 positive cases and 47,145 deaths.&nbsp;

South African cabinet has announced the extension of the country’s national state of disaster by one more month. In its statement, the government said that the national state of disaster will now continue until March 15. The country will mark one year since the national state of disaster was first implemented last year in March in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The national state of disaster will be gazetted and officially extended from February 15 to March 15 by Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) Minister, Nkosozana Dlamini-Zuma. These regulations are set out to stop the further spread of Covid-19 and minimize its effects. Anyone found in violation may be fined or imprisoned. As on Wednesday, South Africa reported 1.48 million Covid-19 positive cases and 47,145 deaths.

South Africa will continue with the planned phase 1 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccination </a>using the Johnson &amp; Johnson, Health Minister, Zweli Mkhize said today.&nbsp;

“Given the outcomes of the efficacy studies, the Department of Health will continue with the planned phase 1 vaccination using the Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine instead of the AstraZeneca vaccine,” the Minister said in a virtual briefing on Wednesday morning.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-says-do-not-dismiss-astrazeneca-jab-after-south-africa-suspends-vaccine-campaign-362289">WHO says do not dismiss AstraZeneca jab after South Africa suspends vaccine campaign</a>

The government temporarily delayed the rollout of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine in South Africa after initial trial data showed it was less effective against the dominant 501.Y.V2 Covid variant first seen in South Africa.&nbsp;

“The Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine has been proven effective against the 501Y.V2 variant and the necessary approval processes for use in South Africa are underway,” he said.&nbsp;

“We will soon announce more details about the delivery of Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccines in our new rollout strategy. It's likely to be next week, but I can't yet confirm as yet,” Mkhize said.&nbsp;

The rollout of vaccination will proceed in the form of an implementation study with the partnership of the Medical Research Council and the National Department of Health vaccination sites across the country, Mkhize added.

The minister also gave clarity on what is going to happen to the 1 million doses of AstraZeneca Vaccine already bought from Serum Institute of India.

“We intend to use the AstraZeneca vaccine based in what experts will say...We are waiting for experts to give us advise,” he said.

“In the rest of the world, it (AstraZeneca) Vaccine is highly well used. There are already some countries who are asking us to sell it to them. All we can say to our public, we will not waste the money. We will either swap the vaccine and get different vaccine or get fresh batch,” the minister added.&nbsp;

As of Tuesday, South Africa reported 1.48 million positive cases and 46,869 deaths.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

South Africa will continue with the planned phase 1 vaccination using the Johnson & Johnson, Health Minister, Zweli Mkhize said today. “Given the outcomes of the efficacy studies, the Department of Health will continue with the planned phase 1 vaccination using the Johnson & Johnson vaccine instead of the AstraZeneca vaccine,” the Minister said in a virtual briefing on Wednesday morning.

South Africa will continue with the planned phase 1 vaccination using the Johnson & Johnson, Health Minister, Zweli Mkhize said today. “Given the outcomes of the efficacy studies, the Department of Health will continue with the planned phase 1 vaccination using the Johnson & Johnson vaccine instead of the AstraZeneca vaccine,” the Minister said in a virtual briefing on Wednesday morning. Also read | WHO says do not dismiss AstraZeneca jab after South Africa suspends vaccine campaign The government temporarily delayed the rollout of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine in South Africa after initial trial data showed it was less effective against the dominant 501.Y.V2 Covid variant first seen in South Africa. “The Johnson & Johnson vaccine has been proven effective against the 501Y.V2 variant and the necessary approval processes for use in South Africa are underway,” he said. “We will soon announce more details about the delivery of Johnson & Johnson vaccines in our new rollout strategy. It's likely to be next week, but I can't yet confirm as yet,” Mkhize said. The rollout of vaccination will proceed in the form of an implementation study with the partnership of the Medical Research Council and the National Department of Health vaccination sites across the country, Mkhize added. The minister also gave clarity on what is going to happen to the 1 million doses of AstraZeneca Vaccine already bought from Serum Institute of India. “We intend to use the AstraZeneca vaccine based in what experts will say...We are waiting for experts to give us advise,” he said. “In the rest of the world, it (AstraZeneca) Vaccine is highly well used. There are already some countries who are asking us to sell it to them. All we can say to our public, we will not waste the money. We will either swap the vaccine and get different vaccine or get fresh batch,” the minister added. As of Tuesday, South Africa reported 1.48 million positive cases and 46,869 deaths.

South Africa to proceed with planned phase 1 vaccination using J&J

South Africa hopes to vaccinate 40 million people, or two-thirds of the population, to achieve some level of herd immunity but has yet to administer a single shot.

South Africa puts hold on AstraZeneca’s Covid-19 vaccine

South African health experts have suggested vaccinating several thousand people with AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine to assess whether it protects against severe cases of a virus variant that emerged in the country.

Authorities delayed the start of a much-anticipated vaccination campaign -- expected to begin this week with the first batch of one million AstraZeneca/Oxford doses -- after a study showed the jabs failed to prevent mild and moderate infection from the South African variant.

The temporary suspension, announced late on Sunday, put a damper on the imminent rollout and stoked criticism of the coronavirus response in Africa's hardest-hit nation.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-patients-on-ventilators-show-severe-symptoms-of-ptsd-study-362493">Coronavirus patients on ventilators show severe symptoms of PTSD: Study</a>

Top government advisor and leading epidemiologist Salim Abdool Karim said his team had suggested still using the AstraZeneca shots in a more staggered manner -- starting with a smaller population group and closely studying their response.

"We would (first) vaccinate about 100,000 people or so to monitor hospitalisation (rates)," Karim told AFP on Monday, adding that the process would take "a few weeks".&nbsp;

"While we are rolling out the vaccine and collecting that information... we will be able to assess whether to continue."

Karim explained it was "prudent" to push back the wider distribution of AstraZeneca shots until scientists ascertain whether they could still prevent severe disease, hospitalisation and death.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oxfordastrazeneca-jab-fails-to-prevent-coronavirus-from-south-african-strain-study-361874">Oxford/AstraZeneca jab fails to prevent coronavirus from South African strain: Study</a>

He assured delay would be "partially compensated" by another batch of vaccines developed by US drugmaker Johnson &amp; Johnson expected to land next week.

Vaccine 'portfolio'

The proposal will be fine-tuned with the government over the coming days.

South Africa's Health Minister Zweli Mkhize told local media on Monday that an "implementation study" of AstraZeneca would take place alongside the rollout of Johnson &amp; Johnson jabs.

Tests will be done "on the people that are getting the (AstraZeneca) vaccination," Mkhize said on SAFM radio.

South Africa has lagged behind the global vaccination race and only received its first vaccines on February 1.

The one million AstraZeneca shots were produced by the Serum Institute of India, from which an additional 500,000 doses are expected this month.

The country aims to inoculate at least 67 per cent of its population by the end of the year, or around 40 million people.&nbsp;

Some 1.2 million health workers will be first in line.

In addition to AstraZeneca and Johnson &amp; Johnson, vaccines have been secured from US drugmaker Pfizer, the WHO-backed Covax facility and the African Union. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Discussions with other producers are also ongoing, particularly Moderna, Chinese manufacturers and the makers of the Russian Sputnik V jab.

South Africa's "vaccine strategy ensures that we are going to use a diverse portfolio of vaccines," said Karim.

"It so happens that we received the AstraZeneca vaccine first."

But the Democratic Alliance main opposition party accused the government of lacking foresight.

"We should have taken into account the possibility of the changing efficacy or delays in rollout strategy," it said in a statement.

Rethinking priorities

The suspension of South Africa's vaccine rollout followed results of an AstraZeneca trial with 2,000 participants and which has not yet undergone peer review. &nbsp;

Johannesburg's University of Witwatersrand (Wits), which conducted the study, found the vaccine only "provides minimal protection against mild-moderate Covid-19 infection" from the South African variant.

Scientists believe that variant is more transmissible than its original form, fuelling an unprecedented spike in cases earlier this year.

Wits vaccinologist Clare Cutland noted the study's sample, with a median age of 31 and no co-morbidities, was too limited to assess AstraZeneca's efficacy against severe disease.

But she said a larger trial of the Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine, which uses similar technologies, showed relatively good protection against severe disease caused by the South African variant -- suggesting there was a "good chance" the same would be observed with AstraZeneca.

"The results... mean that we need to pause to reassess," Cutland told AFP.

"Do we want it to prevent mild and moderate disease only, or... reduce and prevent severe disease?"

"We may not have herd immunity to protect against mild disease," she added. "And maybe that's not a huge issue."

South Africa has recorded almost 1.5 million coronavirus cases and over 46,200 deaths.

The mortality rate has remained relatively low, however, with at least 92 per cent of cases recovered.

"The fact that this virus has mutated faster than we have changed the vaccine to catch up is unfortunate," said Cutland. &nbsp; &nbsp;

"The great thing is that the technologies are good... so the rollout of vaccines against different variants could be a lot quicker."

Researchers at AstraZeneca are working to update the vaccine and expect to have a version tailored to the South African variant by autumn.

South African health experts have suggested vaccinating several thousand people with AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine to assess whether it protects against severe cases of a virus variant that emerged in the country.

South African health experts have suggested vaccinating several thousand people with AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine to assess whether it protects against severe cases of a virus variant that emerged in the country. Authorities delayed the start of a much-anticipated vaccination campaign -- expected to begin this week with the first batch of one million AstraZeneca/Oxford doses -- after a study showed the jabs failed to prevent mild and moderate infection from the South African variant. The temporary suspension, announced late on Sunday, put a damper on the imminent rollout and stoked criticism of the coronavirus response in Africa's hardest-hit nation. Also read| Coronavirus patients on ventilators show severe symptoms of PTSD: Study Top government advisor and leading epidemiologist Salim Abdool Karim said his team had suggested still using the AstraZeneca shots in a more staggered manner -- starting with a smaller population group and closely studying their response. "We would (first) vaccinate about 100,000 people or so to monitor hospitalisation (rates)," Karim told AFP on Monday, adding that the process would take "a few weeks". "While we are rolling out the vaccine and collecting that information... we will be able to assess whether to continue." Karim explained it was "prudent" to push back the wider distribution of AstraZeneca shots until scientists ascertain whether they could still prevent severe disease, hospitalisation and death. Also read| Oxford/AstraZeneca jab fails to prevent coronavirus from South African strain: Study He assured delay would be "partially compensated" by another batch of vaccines developed by US drugmaker Johnson & Johnson expected to land next week. Vaccine 'portfolio' The proposal will be fine-tuned with the government over the coming days. South Africa's Health Minister Zweli Mkhize told local media on Monday that an "implementation study" of AstraZeneca would take place alongside the rollout of Johnson & Johnson jabs. Tests will be done "on the people that are getting the (AstraZeneca) vaccination," Mkhize said on SAFM radio. South Africa has lagged behind the global vaccination race and only received its first vaccines on February 1. The one million AstraZeneca shots were produced by the Serum Institute of India, from which an additional 500,000 doses are expected this month. The country aims to inoculate at least 67 per cent of its population by the end of the year, or around 40 million people. Some 1.2 million health workers will be first in line. In addition to AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson, vaccines have been secured from US drugmaker Pfizer, the WHO-backed Covax facility and the African Union. Discussions with other producers are also ongoing, particularly Moderna, Chinese manufacturers and the makers of the Russian Sputnik V jab. South Africa's "vaccine strategy ensures that we are going to use a diverse portfolio of vaccines," said Karim. "It so happens that we received the AstraZeneca vaccine first." But the Democratic Alliance main opposition party accused the government of lacking foresight. "We should have taken into account the possibility of the changing efficacy or delays in rollout strategy," it said in a statement. Rethinking priorities The suspension of South Africa's vaccine rollout followed results of an AstraZeneca trial with 2,000 participants and which has not yet undergone peer review. Johannesburg's University of Witwatersrand (Wits), which conducted the study, found the vaccine only "provides minimal protection against mild-moderate Covid-19 infection" from the South African variant. Scientists believe that variant is more transmissible than its original form, fuelling an unprecedented spike in cases earlier this year. Wits vaccinologist Clare Cutland noted the study's sample, with a median age of 31 and no co-morbidities, was too limited to assess AstraZeneca's efficacy against severe disease. But she said a larger trial of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which uses similar technologies, showed relatively good protection against severe disease caused by the South African variant -- suggesting there was a "good chance" the same would be observed with AstraZeneca. "The results... mean that we need to pause to reassess," Cutland told AFP. "Do we want it to prevent mild and moderate disease only, or... reduce and prevent severe disease?" "We may not have herd immunity to protect against mild disease," she added. "And maybe that's not a huge issue." South Africa has recorded almost 1.5 million coronavirus cases and over 46,200 deaths. The mortality rate has remained relatively low, however, with at least 92 per cent of cases recovered. "The fact that this virus has mutated faster than we have changed the vaccine to catch up is unfortunate," said Cutland. "The great thing is that the technologies are good... so the rollout of vaccines against different variants could be a lot quicker." Researchers at AstraZeneca are working to update the vaccine and expect to have a version tailored to the South African variant by autumn.

South Africa considers reduced AstraZeneca rollout

Wuhan virus mutations are testing the vaccines. South Africa has paused the rollout of the Oxford vaccine after a study claimed it offered reduced protection against the virus. Does that mean the vaccine doesn't work?

Gravitas: Is the pandemic ending or worsening?

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South African minister Motshekga under criticism for rape comment

South African minister Motshekga under criticism for rape comment

South Africa to reopen 20 land border crossings next week

South Africa to reopen 20 land borders

South Africa extends national state of disaster by another month