The number of COVID-19 vaccinations administered in Uganda is nearing the 240,000 mark, as healthcare workers continue administering inoculations across the country.

According to the health ministry, some 239,617 Ugandans have already received their firsts jabs of the vaccines.

Uganda, like many other countries globally, hopes the vaccinations can help contain the pandemic which has raged on for more than a year.

The East African country launched its mass vaccination drive on March 10, having received 964,000 doses of vaccines through donations.

The drive targets healthcare workers, the elderly and other groups considered high-risk, including teachers.

The health ministry has reiterated on many occasions the need to continue adhering to guidelines aimed at curbing further spread of the virus, including wearing face masks.

By Tuesday, Uganda had reported 41,396 infections with 339 deaths.