Most Vodafone Samoa staff will soon get the second dose of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine and get paid by their employer, the company’s Chief Executive Officer has announced.

Company C.E.O. Nofoasaefa Satish Sharma says they are encouraging all their staff to work with the Ministry of Health to get vaccinated as it is the only way to ensure loved ones are also protected.

“This initiative is our way of giving back to our employees for doing their part in staying COVID-free,” Nofoasaefa said in a statement issued by the company.

And to boost vaccination rates among their staff, the telecommunications company is giving each staff member $50 each after they complete their full dose of the vaccine.

According to the C.E.O. of the company, getting vaccinated is a protective measure that would keep the country safe from the coronavirus.

Hand sanitiser stations as well as face masks are also encouraged within the company and all staff are encouraged to get vaccinated.

Nofoasaefa said Vodafone Samoa is keen on supporting the Government of Samoa’s initiative in keeping Samoa COVID-19-free.

“This is the only solution in fighting against COVID-19 and to be better prepared for when the borders open to other countries in the near future,” says Nofoasaefa.

“When the first dose of vaccines arrived in the country in April this year, Vodafone together with the Ministry of Health conducted a vaccination area inside its main office at Maluafou for all Vodafone staff to receive the free vaccination.

“This was safely monitored and nurses stayed on premises to help manage potential side effects.

“To date Vodafone is proud to be the only company in the private sector to roll out such a scheme for its employees.”