Unam receives over half a million from Vaccines for Hope

Unam Cares recently received a grant of N$600 000 from a consortium of insurance companies called Vaccines for Hope, under the stewardship of Namibia Saving and Investment Association (NaSIA).

This financial assistance will enable the Unam Cares Vaccination campaign to continue with its health promotion roadshows, social mobilisation and rollout of Covid-19 vaccines in nearby towns and remote areas.

The consortium of corporates includes: FirstRand Namibia, Hollard Namibia, Ninety-One, Old Mutual, Liberty Life, Allan Gray and Stanlib. Speaking at the event, Vice-president Nangolo Mbumba, in his capacity as the Unam chancellor, lauded the contribution from Vaccines for Hope.

“I am very grateful to learn that the financial support of N$600 000 received here today from the Vaccines for Hope consortium, by the University of Namibia (Unam Cares) will be utilised to execute the Covid-19 vaccination programmes and support the establishment of Covid-19 clinics at nine of 12 campuses across the country,” Mbumba said.

Also sharing a few words before handing over the grant was Jason Hailonga, chief executive-officer of NaSIA, who highlighted the consortium’s commitment to the fight against Covid-19.

“By making this monetary contribution, we hope to improve the quality of life and reduce the mortality rates of vulnerable and stranded population groups – while at the same time assisting in the increase in the public health education on the importance and benefit of the Covid-19 vaccination and getting members of the public vaccinated,” said Hailonga.

Professor Kenneth Matengu, Unam vice-chancellor, explained that Unam Cares was established from the understanding that service is an important purpose of a university.

“We are really grateful for this grant and we assure you that this grant will enable us to contribute impactfully to the lives and livelihood of the vulnerable populations,” he said.

“We can assure you that this funding will be spent in the best interest of the vulnerable citizens to get vaccinated,” remarked Dr Rachel Freeman, the Unam Cares lead and senior lecturer in the Social Work Department.