Managing Pandemics in West Africa: The Challenge of Vaccine Apathy in Ghana

Abstract

The study explores the management of pandemics with a focus on the challenge of COVID 19 vaccine apathy with Ghana as the case in point. The theory of securitization served as the framework. The objectives of the study were to determine how the COVID 19 pandemic was managed in Ghana and other parts of the world, as well as the factors dissuading Ghanaians from taking the vaccines. It also looked at the other remedies proffered other than the COVID 19 vaccines. The research employed the use of qualitative method using interviews and questionnaire. The questionnaire was analyzed using SPSS and the interviews were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings of the study revealed that social, cultural, political factors as well as structural weaknesses inherent in African societies creates difficulties in managing pandemics. Lack of trust in political leadership, religion, preference for traditional remedies, misinformation and misconceptions are the major barriers to vaccine uptake in Ghana. It also revealed that there is a general awareness of the vaccine but more information about them was lacking creating conditions for vaccine rejection. It was recommended that there should be regular vaccine campaigns targeted to address the fears, concerns and mistrust using text messaging, radio and tv adverts, door to door campaigns and the use of public address systems. The campaigns should also factor the different socio-cultural set up present in different localities in order to address the issue of vaccine hesitancy. In addition, there is the need to involve religious leaders and their institutions, doctors and influential people within society to serve as vaccine ambassadors to advocate for the benefits of vaccinations and instill trust in the public.