Covid-19 in Africa: Exploring the Factors that Predict Public Acceptance & Use of the Covid-19 Vaccine in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in many unprecedented mortality and fatalities globally. To address the negative effects of the pandemic on the general public and nations, the Covid-19 vaccine was developed and rolled out globally. However, historical evidence suggests that Africans initially struggle to accept and use vaccines because of misconceptions and ignorance and the Covid-19 vaccine might not be an exception. This study identifies the various factors that influence citizens' acceptance and use of the Covid-19 vaccine in Africa, specifically Sub-Saharan Africa using a chi-square analysis of 3000 respondents from six countries. Results from our analysis suggest that vaccine specific issues such as safety, effectiveness, availability, delivery methods, and other factors strongly correlate with acceptance and use of the Covid-19 vaccine. The findings of this study have serious implications for both theory and practice in Africa and globally.