Question NW547 to the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
25 March 2024 - NW547
Masipa, Mr NP to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
What are the relevant details regarding the production of vaccines as it relates to freeze drying at the Onderstepoort Biological Products since the new board took over?
Reply:
The freeze dryer was not operational over the December period due to technical issues which required the services of a specialist service provider. Finding the specialist took some time with an appointment only made in January 2024. The freeze dryer has been operational since the third week of February 2024.
Six batches of vaccines have been freeze-dried to date. Production is continuing over seven days (every day of the week) to cover the production backlog.