Yemi Alade to spearhead COVID-19 vaccination campaign in Africa

Nigerian singer Yemi Alade has been appointed the Global Ambassador for a campaign dubbed #ItsUpToUs aimed at encouraging Africans to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

#ItsUpToUs is an activism campaign that was initiated by the Africa CDC and MasterCard Foundation to spread the importance of vaccination in Africa, ensure vaccine access and spread the right information about the pandemic.

Yemi Alade’s ambassadorship was unveiled through the #ItsUpToUs campaign video dubbed 'Take your shot with Yemi Alade', which was released on Monday.

“I’m delighted to be a part of #ItsUptoUs, a movement that encourages Africans to take up the responsibility in making the world safe again. I’m happy to lend my voice to this important issue and moment,” she said.

Yemi has also previously spoken out about the importance of vaccine equality and the safety of COVID-19 vaccinations while also ensuring the dissemination of legitimate information.

This as it was reported that less than twelve per cent of Africa’s population has been vaccinated against the coronavirus.

The #ItsUpToUs campaign spearheaded by Yemi Alade will see to it that vaccine coverage in the continent increases.

Africa CDC and MasterCard Foundation have joined forces to ensure that the availability of vaccines in Africa remains a priority.

“COVID-19 vaccine acceptance is important to achieving herd immunity and safeguarding citizens in Africa and globally against the virus and its variants,” said Dr. John Nkenagsong, Director of the Africa CDC.

“That's why Africa CDC and the Mastercard Foundation are joining efforts in ensuring access to vaccines for Africa.”

MasterCard Foundation boss Reeta Roy, on his part, warned against widespread misinformation about the COVID-19 vaccination process.

“Vaccines remain critical for saving lives and livelihoods. But, misinformation spreads fast, so we need to be smarter and more creative to spread the right information faster. People make the right choices to protect themselves and their families when they have the facts,” he stated.

To further propel the message to urge vaccination in Africa, Yemi is also set to release a campaign unity anthem on March 9, 2022.

In addition, 21-year-old Zambian social media star Mooya Musunga will choreograph the #ItsUpToUs dance challenge.

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