GOVERNMENT’S failure to provide mobile data for centres currently activating QR codes for COVID-19 vaccination cards has forced several health facilities to suspend the service, leaving travellers stranded.
In April this year, the country began the process of activating QR codes on COVID-19 vaccination cards, which were previously issued with preprinted codes.
Government introduced vaccination cards with QR codes to prevent duplication by scammers.
The Health and Child Care ministry decentralised activation of QR codes for the convenience of travellers.
The process is a requirement when people travel outside the country.
A recent visit to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals by NewsDay revealed that the activation of the COVID-19 vaccination cards was indefinitely suspended due to lack of mobile data.
Hospital employees told NewsDay that the facility was experiencing data challenges.
“We were ordered to shut down and we are not sure when the service will resume. We don’t know why they closed, but we have been having data challenges. Without data, we cannot work. Travellers can try Wilkins or Town House, but Town House is taking a limited number per day due to data issues,” an employee who requested anonymity said.
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A visit to Wilkins Hospital revealed that several people seeking the service were being turned away.
A Wilkins employee who requested anonymity said: “We usually don’t have long queues, but the current situation is because other centres closed due to data unavailability. It’s now three months. The problem is that government is not providing data. We don’t have a choice, but to turn away those who are not travelling immediately. That’s the reason we are asking for proof of travel.”
Health and Child Care ministry secretary Jasper Chimedza said his office was addressing the issue.
“It’s just a small administrative issue. We are working on rectifying the problem. This is an issue localised to Parirenyatwa due to high human traffic volumes,” Chimedza said.
