Absa is redirecting R700,000 worth of food and supplies initially intended for the Absa Cape Epic in the Western Cape, which was cancelled, towards vulnerable communities that will be hard-hit during the lockdown.
“Absa recognises that Covid-19 is a serious public health issue that will have profound economic and social consequences. The rate of escalation in infections confirms that the steps taken by government to deal with this pandemic are both necessary and urgent ... Decisive action from all of us is essential to protect human life and socioeconomic sustainability,” said Daniel Mminele, group CEO of Absa Group.
The Solidarity Fund was established by government to support the most vulnerable to deal with the impact of Covid-19. The Fund will complement government resources allocated to the national public health response to prevent and slow down the spread of the virus.
In addition to the financial contribution, Absa has partnered with the department of social development and GovChat in a public awareness and hygiene education campaign using the bank’s sports broadcast advertising spots and prominent football personalities. Absa is the title sponsor of SA’s Absa Premiership league competition that is broadcast on DStv Supersport and SABC.
GovChat is a digital platform that connects ordinary citizens to government services. To help with the effort against the pandemic, GovChat’s service delivery notification service is being used to help citizens use their mobile phones to notify health authorities, and be directed to appropriate health facilities.
The data will also assist authorities to identify Covid-19 hotspots at any given time to manage resource allocation.
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