South Africa unite amid the COVID-19 outbreak
As the country faces its first lockdown in history, due to the COVID-19 outbreak, we see South Africans unite as never before.
Banks are permitting payment holidays to business owners and students, companies are donating funds to fight the virus and initiatives have been launched to help businesses survive COVID-19. We have decided to share a few of the great initiatives making things a bit easier for business owners and individuals in these uncertain times.
Ubuntu Beds:
Ubuntu Beds is an initiative aiming to unite hospitality businesses that now stand empty with healthcare workers who are tirelessly fighting the virus on the front lines. Ubuntu Beds aims to offer a haven to healthcare workers, who are exhausted and unable to return home for fear of infecting their families, these beds are offered in hostels, hotels, BnB’s and guest-houses across the county.
Curro Schools printing 3D medical supplies:
Curro Holdings stepped up to assist several healthcare organisations in South Africa by offering the services of their 3D Printers, as well as their staff, to aid in the printing of protective face shields for medical workers currently fighting against COVID-19 in South Africa.
Shoprite 'appreciation' bonus:
Shoprite will be paying R102 million in bonuses to the frontline shop floor and distribution employees for continuing their work during the COVID-19 outbreak.
COBRA (COVID Business Rescue Assistance) War Room is a pro bono service helping South African businesses in distress to co-ordinate bank, government and stakeholder support through a structured business rescue process.
SAB (South African Breweries) assists with hand sanitiser production in SA:
With the demand for alcohol-based hand sanitiser sky rocketing during the COVID-19 outbreak, SAB started the production of hand sanitizer that contains 80% alcohol, which is exactly what the healthcare sector requires.
Naspers facilities to be used for healthcare services:
Naspers will be making available some of its facilities to be used for public health services in vulnerable communities, to assist the government's efforts to manage the COVID-19 crisis.
Though we find ourselves in uncertain times we know that working together will make us come out stronger as a country.
Even though we do we face uncertain times and we do not know what life will be like after the lockdown, one thing we know is that we are stronger when we work together to make South Africa a better place for all.
Sources:
Goodthingsguy - https://www.goodthingsguy.com/
Fin24 - https://www.fin24.com/