President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera and first lady Monica Chakwera have received the first jab of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine at Zomba Field Hospital previously called state residencies.

This also marked the he launch of the Covid vaccine which will see over 1 million being vaccinated in the first phase.

The president is expected to receive the second dose with 8-12 weeks from today.

Speaking when launching the vaccine at Zomba Field Hospital, Chakwera said ten days from now, it will be exactly one year since the country waged war against the Covid-19 pandemic and the first declaration of the State of National disaster.

He urged people to continue observing preventive measures to keep the new infection rate down.

The President hailed healthcare workers for their efforts and dedication in managing Covid-19 patients.

Chakwera said currently, the nation is at 8 percent positivity rate and will start easing restrictions as the positivity rate gets down to below 5 percent.

He further applauded the World Health Organisation and all development partners for supporting Malawi to access the Covid-19 vaccine.

President Chakwera dispelled rumours associated with the Covid-19 vaccine urging the nation not to be fooled.

“I have volunteered to be the first one to be vaccinated so that you can see that the vaccine is safe,” said Chakwera.

Meanwhile State Vice President Dr. Saulos Chilima is launching the exercise in Mzuzu.