SJD1501
ASSIGNMENT 6 SEMESTER 2 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 30 OCTOBER 2025
, Social Dimensions of Justice
1. What would you say to those who believe Africa lacks expertise in responding
to pandemics?
It is incorrect to claim that Africa lacks expertise in responding to pandemics. The
continent has long experience in dealing with outbreaks such as Ebola, HIV/AIDS,
malaria and cholera, which has built substantial knowledge in disease surveillance,
testing, and public health communication. African health professionals, scientists, and
community health workers have demonstrated innovation and resilience in managing
crises under conditions of limited resources. Their expertise lies not only in clinical skills
but also in community-based strategies, which are often more effective in local contexts
than imported solutions.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, several African countries responded swiftly by
implementing screening at borders, lockdowns, and public awareness campaigns
before many developed nations acted. The real challenge has not been lack of
expertise, but rather corruption, weak governance and inadequate resources that
undermine efficient responses. For example, the misuse of procurement processes
during COVID-19 in South Africa reflected failures in due diligence and governance
rather than professional incompetence.
Therefore, dismissing Africa’s pandemic response capacity is both unfair and
misleading. The continent has skilled professionals and institutions, but they need
stronger systems, transparent governance, and investment to ensure that their
expertise translates into effective and corruption-free responses.
2. What is the importance of conducting due diligence?
Due diligence is essential because it ensures accountability, transparency, and the
proper use of public resources. It involves thoroughly verifying the capacity,
ASSIGNMENT 6 SEMESTER 2 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 30 OCTOBER 2025
, Social Dimensions of Justice
1. What would you say to those who believe Africa lacks expertise in responding
to pandemics?
It is incorrect to claim that Africa lacks expertise in responding to pandemics. The
continent has long experience in dealing with outbreaks such as Ebola, HIV/AIDS,
malaria and cholera, which has built substantial knowledge in disease surveillance,
testing, and public health communication. African health professionals, scientists, and
community health workers have demonstrated innovation and resilience in managing
crises under conditions of limited resources. Their expertise lies not only in clinical skills
but also in community-based strategies, which are often more effective in local contexts
than imported solutions.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, several African countries responded swiftly by
implementing screening at borders, lockdowns, and public awareness campaigns
before many developed nations acted. The real challenge has not been lack of
expertise, but rather corruption, weak governance and inadequate resources that
undermine efficient responses. For example, the misuse of procurement processes
during COVID-19 in South Africa reflected failures in due diligence and governance
rather than professional incompetence.
Therefore, dismissing Africa’s pandemic response capacity is both unfair and
misleading. The continent has skilled professionals and institutions, but they need
stronger systems, transparent governance, and investment to ensure that their
expertise translates into effective and corruption-free responses.
2. What is the importance of conducting due diligence?
Due diligence is essential because it ensures accountability, transparency, and the
proper use of public resources. It involves thoroughly verifying the capacity,
