The single-shot Johnson&Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, a donation from the American people, come as Madagascar opens its borders to international travel.

ANTANANARIVO – The U.S. government has donated 336,000 doses of the Johnson&Johnson COVID-19 vaccine to Madagascar as part of the Biden Administration’s global effort to end the COVID-19 pandemic, mitigate its devastating social and economic impacts, and build back a world that is better prepared for future outbreaks. Following close collaboration between the United States, COVAX, and the African Union, these doses arrived at Ivato Airport on October 25.

“Widespread vaccinations make Madagascar and the world more secure against the threat of infectious disease,” U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Amy Hyatt said in a statement before the press.

”I urge people to take advantage of these vaccines. Get vaccinated. Protect yourself, your family, and your community. And we will overcome this pandemic together.” — Amy Hyatt

Today’s vaccine delivery represents the second bilateral donation to Madagascar from the American people. In July, the U.S. government donated 302,750 doses of the single-dose Johnson&Johnson COVID-19 vaccine as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to share U.S. vaccine supply with the world. Globally, the United States has already donated over 200 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine to more than 100 countries – and President Biden has announced plans to donate 1.1 billion vaccines to countries in need.

“This is about our responsibility — our humanitarian obligation to save as many lives as we can — and our responsibility to our values. We’re going to help lead the world out of this pandemic, working alongside our global partners.” — President Biden.

The United States is sharing vaccine doses with nearly all African countries to save lives and to lead the world in bringing an end to the pandemic. This effort is just one more example of our commitment to our African partners as we confront new waves of the pandemic.

Government officials were present at Ivato airport today. (Photo by U.S. Embassy Antananarivo)

In Madagascar, the United States has worked closely with the government, like “mpirahalahy mianala,” to protect public health. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), on behalf of the American people, has provided $5.1 million to help support primary health care facilities and increase vaccine access; $2.5 million in emergency funding to support the delivery and rollout of vaccines, expand infectious disease testing, and provide personal protective equipment for front-line Malagasy health workers; and contributed $5 million to the Tosika Fameno cash transfer program to ensure vulnerable families in the most affected cities had enough to eat. The Peace Corps is also supporting the Government of Madagascar’s vaccination efforts.

The United States will continue to do all it can to build a world that is safer and more secure against the threat of infectious disease.

Press Release by U.S. Embassy Antananarivo.