Morocco says it will participate in the clinical trials of a covid-19 vaccine developed by China National Biotec Group Company Limited (Sinopharm CNBG). Two deals were signed yesterday August 20 between the two partners to materialize their collaboration.

According to the Moroccan Foreign Minister, Nasser Bourima (pictured), the first part of the agreements focuses on “cooperation in Phase III clinical trials of the covid-19 vaccine on humans” while the second part concerns global cooperation, and the third seeks to improve the overall relation between Morocco and China.

The announcement comes at a time when rich countries are striving to find a vaccine. In recent months, these countries announced they have reached agreements with laboratories to obtain the first doses of a cure.

Although it remains the continent least affected by the pandemic, Africa has unanimously called on the wealthiest countries to campaign for vaccines to be available equitably in both developed and developing countries.

“This is how we are demonstrating [...] our commitment to ensuring that the future covid-19 vaccine is accessible to all, particularly on the African continent,” said Minister Bourita.

According to the African Union's latest assessment, Morocco has recorded more than 44,800 cases with 714 deaths and 31,000 recoveries.

Moutiou Adjibi Nourou