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A letter from Kate Campana, CEO of The Access Challenge, to AfricaCOVIDChampions
Dear Champions,
On behalf of the One by One: Target COVID-19 Campaign, led in partnership with the African Union, the Africa CDC, the Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete Foundation, The Access Challenge and Clouds Media Group in support of the Africa CDC’s COVID-19 response, I would like to offer my profound gratitude for your efforts as one of our #AfricaCOVIDChampions in 2021.
While we had the highest of ambitions from the start, I can humbly say that I couldn’t imagine just how much of an impact we would have together. By lending your powerful voices to the fight against COVID-19, we reached over 400 million people across Africa on social media alone – and that doesn’t include offline efforts like TV and radio broadcasts and other rural community engagement efforts. Our reach continues to grow as this group of Champions, ranging from DJs and musicians to medical students, celebrities, Ministries of Health and Presidents, find creative, authentic and innovative ways to reach your communities and keep them safe. Below I'd like to share just a few highlights from last year as we gear up for the next phase of the Campaign together.
2021 CAMPAIGN HIGHLIGHTS
Africa CDC Recognition Certificates
Certificates signed by Dr. John N. Nkengasong, Director of Africa CDC, were awarded to AfricaCOVIDChampions for their participation in the launch event in March 2021 and their ongoing dedication to combating COVID-19 misinformation.
Launch Event with keynote addresses by Dr. Moeti, Regional Director of the World Health Organization, Africa Region, and Dr. John N. Nkengasong, Director of Africa CDC
Hailed as a “historic, game-changing event” by renowned Kenyan journalist and Campaign launch moderator, Jeff Koinagne, our Campaign kicked off in March of 2021 with hundreds of prominent influencers from all sectors of society. Click here to view the recording on YouTube.
Remarks by Dr. Benjamin Djoulbaye, Head of Policy Health Diplomacy & Communication at Africa CDC
In celebration of One by One: Target COVID-19 and our #AfricaCOVIDChampions in Uganda, Dr. Benjamin Djoulbaye, Head, Division of Policy, Health Diplomacy and Communication at Africa CDC shared this congratulatory message. Click here to view the recording on YouTube."When I look at the numbers of people reached via your messages on social media and other channels, I am impressed, Africa is proud of you."
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni Recognition
Following Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni's national address on COVID-19 directives in September 2021, he recognized #AfricaCOVIDChampions on Twitter.
Awilo Longomba's "Wear A Mask" Video
Renowned musician Awilo Longomba shared this message about the importance of wearing masks. It was also promoted by popular #AfricaCOVIDChampions including Wezi Victoria, DJ Spilulu and Martha Kay. So far, the video has been seen by more than 200K viewers. Click below to view the video on YouTube or click here to view on Facebook.
Up Next for #AfricaCOVIDChampions: Get Africa Vaccinated
Our job is far from over.
Last month, Africa saw an 83% surge in new COVID-19 cases in a single week. To date, just 7% of the continent's population is fully vaccinated. Although vaccines are the most critical tool to save lives and livelihoods, Africa’s immunization progress has been hindered by vaccine hesitancy stemming from misinformation online and within communities. As new COVID-19 variants emerge and vaccines continue to roll out in earnest, there is a critical need for communications by trusted messengers like you to encourage as many people as possible to get vaccinated.
In the coming weeks, we will be introducing a new Africa-CDC Toolkit focused on vaccines. We will also be expanding deep-dive campaigns in several new African countries. Be sure to follow our social media pages if you aren’t already for more updates.
We will continue sending weekly content for you to share in the meantime.
We look forward to your continued support and active participation. Together, we are all part of and historic moment in keeping our continent safe.
Thank you and Happy New Year to you and your loved ones.
Best,
Kate Campana & The One by One: Target COVID-19 Team