​Thembisa Shologu
The Department of Health has partnered with the Electoral Commission (IEC) to set up additional 1000 pop-up vaccination sites that will be operational in the vicinity of polling stations on Monday. 
 "The sites will be set up in the voting precinct but outside the area demarcated strictly for voting so that these vaccination sites will not interfere with the main purpose of the day which is voting itself," Health Minister Joe Phaahla said. 
Government will be targeting areas that have a low vaccine uptake. 
This arrangement will offer convenience in that people will cast their ballots and proceed to the pop-up site to vaccinate, all in one trip. 
"Priority will be given to the use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine as we know it is a one-dose vaccination so that people that can have one trip and not have to come back, but for those who prefer the Pfizer vaccine, that will also be available," said the Minister. 
South Africa is heading to the Local Government Elections polls on Monday.
The IEC will be providing PPE for every voting station, hand sanitiser, wipes and disposable bins. Every official will wear a face mask, IEC's Janet Love said. 
"Certainly, before entering the voting station, masks are compulsory and we keep our distance to the 1.5 metres to every extent possible," said Love.  
In addition, several companies have offered incentives for voters and healthcare workers on the day: Nandos has donated 500 000 worth of incentives, 1000 vouchers at R500 each and R100 worth of Uber ride.
A pilot scheme valued at R26 million is designed to benefit 260 000 people over the age of 60 who will receive their first vaccination during the month of November 2021. 
Those who fall within n this group will qualify for an R100 grocery voucher called the Vuma Voucher which can be redeemed at the Shoprite, Checkers and U Save stores.