LOOK: Contentious ‘anti-vaccine billboard’ sparks backlash in Cape Town

A company based in Cape Town has incurred the wrath of social media users this week, after their anti-vaccine billboard was reported to city officials. The advertisement, however, is in the process of being removed.

‘Bill Gates conspiracy’ plastered onto major billboard

The sign, riddled with contempt for the scientific achievements made during this pandemic, tells Capetonians to choose between getting the jab or honouring God. There is a reference to Bill Gates in there, and the billionaire has become a lightning rod for anti-vaccine conspiracists in the past 16 months or so.

The message reads ‘no vaccines for us’ at the bottom, and gleefully peddles misinformation while seeking to discourage people from getting their vital inoculations. It was initially erected on Beach Road in Maitland, but one Capetonian has taken matters into her own hands – and ensured that the City of Cape Town was made aware of the billboard.

Anti-vaccine billboard reported to Cape Town officials

Cape Town business fined for contentious sign

In their response to the complaint, COCT representatives say that the billboard DOES contravene the city’s by-laws. The business – which, funnily enough, specialises in PPE supplies – has also been forced to pay a fine for their indiscretions.

“The signboard is illegal as the owner has not applied for authorisation in terms of the City’s Outdoor Advertising and Signage By-law. The company has paid an admission of guilt fine and the City is currently liaising with the owner about the removal of the signboard.”

“The City does not control the content of a sign. As such, complainants are advised to approach the Advertising Regulatory Board of South Africa and the National Government, seeing that the message relates to advertising that may be interpreted as ‘spreading false information about vaccines’, or it may encourage people not to vaccinate.”