Pandor says as much as the continent's strengthened economies and democracy over the past few decades, its public health systems need more work.

"I think this has been a calamity for the African continent, given the strides that we had made over the last two decades," Pandor said.

"Our economies had improved vastly, we had seen the strengthening of democracy and good governance in many parts of the continent and so this is a real setback and it has exposed our public health care systems as being fragile."

Pandor also commended Africa's coordinated approach to the virus.

"What has been encouraging is the coordinated manner in which we have responded, led by the African Union and particularly by AU chairperson, Cyril Ramaphosa," the minister said.

"So I think, Africa, out of this experience has to ensure that all the inadequacies that have emerged as key barriers to fighting this pandemic must be addressed."

eNCA