Namibia will launch its COVID-19 vaccination campaign on Friday after receiving the first batch of Sinopharm vaccines donated by China, the country's Minister of Health Kalumbi Shangula said on Tuesday.

Shangula thanked China for the goodwill gesture and said the vaccination campaign will kick start from March 19 to April 16, 2021, in areas hardest hit by the pandemic.

He also expressed confidence in the efficacy of the Sinopharm vaccine, saying it has been used elsewhere in the continent.

"The vaccine has been rolled out in countries such as China, Seychelles, Morocco, United Arab Emirates, Zimbabwe and others," Shangula said.

He said people getting the shot will be observed for 30 minutes afterward and are encouraged to report via phone call or visit the nearest health facility if they experience any potential adverse effects.