What the NBI is doing in response to COVID-19
Water in the Time of the Coronavirus
NBI Thought Leadership, 02 December 2020 Introduction The world is currently in the grips of a global pandemic with far-reaching consequences, including devastating effects on poverty, inequality and unemployment in South Africa. It is difficult to imagine how this context could be heightened by other difficulties. But indeed, the threat of an unfolding water crisis […]
5 000 handwashing units to be rolled out in City of Cape Town COVID-19 hotspots
NBI Quick Brief, 15 October 2020 Today, Global Handwashing Day, saw the commencement of 5 000 plastic bottle handwash units being rolled out across Cape Town’s informal settlements by the National Business Initiative (NBI) and Business for South Africa (B4SA) COVID-19 Water Working Group, in partnership with Astron Energy, local NGOs and the City of […]
Funding the Future: Long-Term Solutions for Safe Water Access
NBI NewsFlash, 07 September 2020 Safe access to clean water can save lives. Providing viable handwashing solutions at scale is essential for public health. It is for these reasons that leading pump manufacturing company Grundfos – through its Foundation, the Poul due Jensen Foundation (PDJF) – has teamed up with the National Business Initiative (NBI), […]
Building Social Cohesion Strategies in Response to COVID-19
NBI Thought Leadership, 31 July 2020 COVID-19 has changed our world, the way we live and the way we work. In a few short months, the world has started to accept that many aspects of our lives may not return to our previous ‘normal’. In many cases, a new normal means a departure from […]
Responding to COVID-19: Using Simple Innovations to Save Lives
NBI Quick Brief, 26 June 2020 Across South Africa, millions of people live in impoverished conditions in informal settlements, without access to adequate water, sanitation and hygiene. In partnership with Business for South Africa’s (B4SA) Water Working Group and the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), the National Business Initiative (NBI) has commenced with […]
Ekurhuleni MMC for Water and Sanitation, Tiisetso Nketle, launches hand washing facilities to curb COVID-19
NBI NewsFlash, 11 June 2020 The City of Ekurhuleni’s MMC for Water and Sanitation, Tiisetso Nketle, yesterday launched the Portable Hand Washing Facility project in Qalabosha Informal Settlement in Ekurhuleni. With water, sanitation and hygiene considered the best defence against the spread of COVID-19, the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) is tackling the pandemic head […]
The Value of Mentors: Human Capital is a Precious Commodity
NBI Quick Brief, 15 May 2020 If you were to embark on a journey into unchartered territory, you would probably need a map. In the world of work, there are people who have already made these journeys and in whose footsteps others can follow. These people are called mentors. Recognising the value of mentorship, […]
Social Transformation: COVID-19 and the fight for equality in an unequal society
NBI Thought Leadership, 28 April 2020 COVID-19 has caused unprecedented social and economic upheaval. As a result of endemic inequality, the daily consequences of this pandemic are being unequally experienced across South African society, with the marginalised in society baring the brunt of the negative consequences. It is no longer possible to deny that […]
Update on the NBI and Business for South Africa COVID-19 Working Group on Water and Sanitation
NBI NewsFlash, 21 April 2020 The National Business Initiative (NBI) and Business for South Africa (B4SA) COVID-19 Working Group on Water and Sanitation (B4SA Water)* have launched an emergency water response in recognition that WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) is the first line of defence against the coronavirus. WASH is central to curbing the […]
Update from the BSA COVID-19 Working Group on Water and Sanitation
WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) is the first line of defence against the coronavirus The Business for South Africa (B4SA) COVID-19 Working Group on Water and Sanitation (B4SA Water), in collaboration with the National Business Initiative (NBI) is supporting the COVID-19 response efforts of the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) and of local municipalities. […]
COVID-19: A Blueprint for Collaboration on an Unprecedented Scale
NBI Quick Brief, 14 April 2020 It is in times of crisis that we are asked to question the accepted status quo and seek solutions outside the normal ambit of business as usual. In this vein, the COVID-19 pandemic poses a unique challenge to both business and government to do things differently, with both parties […]
Gender-Based Violence in a time of COVID-19
NBI NewsFlash, 3 April 2020 In the wake of the COVID-19 global pandemic, various organisations that work towards eradicating Gender-Based Violence have spoken out on the possibility of increased rates of domestic violence. In times of crisis, women are faced with disproportional domestic responsibilities, financial instability, and limited access to reproductive healthcare services. Research […]
Water quality, sanitation and hygiene in light of COVID-19
NBI Thought Leadership, 3 April 2020 Water Research Commission (WRC) dialogue on water quality, sanitation and hygiene in light of COVID-19 COVID-19 transmission The upheaval as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is unprecedented in recent history. In response, the world is battling to come to terms with the system level shifts required to […]
WASH is our first line of defence against COVID-19
NBI NewsFlash, 1 April 2020 Water Research Commission (WRC) dialogue on water quality, sanitation and hygiene in light of COVID-19 Water access is at the centre of the South African COVID-19 response. South Africa’s densely populated areas that lack piped water or adequate handwashing facilities are at increased risk of COVID-19 transmission. Reducing transmission requires […]
What NBI members are doing in response to COVID-19
SAB Donates Medical Equipment to the Value of R25 million to Government!
Johannesburg, South Africa (22 March 2021) – In an effort to support the local healthcare system, South African Breweries (SAB) has sponsored medical supplies worth R25 million to the Gauteng government.This critical helping hand will assist in replenishing the medical supplies which have been depleted due to COVID-19 peak demand and guarding against a potential resurgence […]
Support for SMEs Critical for Post COVID Economic Recovery
Old Mutual Insure concentrates resources where they matter most. By Garth Napier, MD of Old Mutual Insure As Finance Minister Tito Mboweni grapples with the near-impossible task of balancing the country’s books following the economic devastation of COVID-19 lockdowns on an already ailing economy, Old Mutual Insure has identified practical steps that are making a positive […]
Liberty adapts its education benefits to the realities of the pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has for now, not only changed the way the traditional schooling system functions but the cost of education as well.With home-schooling becoming the norm, more parents are opting to pull their children out of traditional schooling and choosing full-time home-schooling rather, a trend previously frowned upon.”This is the reality that we find […]
Standard Bank South Africa recognised globally as the top bank for supporting small businesses during Covid-19
Standard Bank is proud to announce that it has received global recognition for its efforts and best practice in delivering critical financial relief and support to its small- and medium-sized enterprise (SME) clients since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.As the only financial services organisation in South Africa to be invited to participate as a […]
Exxaro Launches Grootegeluk COVID-19 Community Support Initiatives
As our country continues to be greatly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, Exxaro, one of South Africa’s largest black-empowered resource companies, has implemented community support initiatives to aid host communities in these difficult times. Exxaro’s Grootegeluk mine – situated in Lephalale, realised the untold loss and devastation caused by the pandemic, continues to support its community […]
Discovery Health Medical Scheme Contributions Remain Unchanged Until July 1, 2021
The Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of access to quality health care, and we would like to make the start of 2021 a little easier for you.The contributions to all Discovery Heath Medical Scheme plans did not increase on January 1 2021, and will remain at the 2020 rate for the first six months […]
Anglo American Contributes up to US$30 Million Towards Global COVID-19 Vaccine Roll-Out
Anglo American is making available up to US$30 million of support towards the global roll-out of Covid-19 vaccines across its operational footprint. The nature of the contribution, consisting of cash and in-kind support, will differ by country based on the vaccine deployment models being adopted by, and the needs of, each country. Anglo American’s support […]
Sanlam’s Efforts to Help Communities and Rejuvenate the Economy in the Wake of the COVID-19 Pandemic
From contributing to relief efforts and supporting communities across their global footprint, Sanlam are in the serious business of helping clients grow and protect their wealth.The Covid-19 pandemic has posed serious challenges in the lives of many and has had a severe impact on our economy and livelihoods. Sanlam has always been passionate about supporting […]
ERM’s support on responses to the COVID-19 global pandemic
The COVID-19 virus is affecting communities and businesses on multiple continents, having a profound impact on people, markets and the global economy. Companies are deploying multi-faceted responses to the pandemic as it affects both human lives and business continuity.Along with taking measures within our own company, ERM is supporting these responses as an integrated partner […]
Sappi lends a helping hand to assist communities during Covid-19: Video
When the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic swept across the globe at the beginning of 2020, it highlighted the plight of many of the more vulnerable communities, especially those situated in the rural areas of our country and in our neighbouring communities. With this in mind Sappi Southern Africa stepped in and donated scarce and essential items […]
IDC approves R746m in Covid-19 relief measures
JOHANNESBURG – The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) on Monday announced the approval of R746 million in relief measures for a number of businesses as part of the government’s Covid-19 economic interventions. The IDC said R440.8m of the money had already been disbursed under three of its interventions: essential supplies, the distressed and the small industrial finance […]
Woolworths launches innovative face mask with Viroblock
Many South Africans are now appreciating the virtues of good design as we don face masks to go back to work and be out in public. Trouble getting them on, discomfort while wearing them, steamy spectacles and getting short of breath are some of the challenges we are facing as we strive to protect ourselves and […]
Santam pays out R950m in relief funds
Santam, South Africa’s largest short-term insurer, said yesterday that it had already paid R950million in relief payments to support small and medium-sized commercial policyholders and businesses distressed as a result of Covid-19. Santam said it made a provision of R1.3billion in the six months to end June by estimating the exposure relating to policies with […]
Sasol Secunda | Making a difference and supporting fence-line communities during the coronavirus pandemic
South Africa has high socio-economic disparities with a great number of vulnerable communities. As a caring and responsible corporate citizen, Sasol recognises its duty to step up and show support for those in need. During the COVID-19 virus outbreak Sasol Secunda has reached out to its surrounding communities to be a force for good to […]
ToyotaReach affirms Toyota’s fight against the spread of COVID-19 in South Africa.
In a nutshell, ToyotaReach – with funding to the tune of R15 million – affirms Toyota’s fight against the spread of COVID-19 in South Africa. We would also like to thank our business partners (CFAO SA, Cataler SA, Metair Investments, Toyota Boshoku SA, Toyoda Gosei SA, Advics SA and Eguchi Iwao SA) for their capital […]
Absa wins international award for its response to Covid-19
Absa Group, one of Africa’s leading diversified financial services groups, was recently awarded the Euromoney 2020 Excellence in Leadership in Africa Award as a result of their integrated Covid-19 response for their employees, clients and communities.Absa took home the award which recognises excellence in leadership on the Africa continent. The award looks at what corporates in the […]
Santam sets aside R1bn relief fund.
Santam has set aside a R1billion relief fund for potential business interruption claims from its policy holders.Santam said that it was not pressured to establish the fund, but wanted to do the right thing in the light of likely claims arising out of the Covid-19 interruptions, particularly for small businesses.Group chief executive Lizé Lambrechts yesterday […]
SPAR contributes massively with R12 million food parcels to vulnerable communities
The community-driven SPAR Group is adding to their drive to feed the nation during this disastrous phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, not only through store driven initiatives, but as an organisation as well.SPAR has teamed up with the Consumer Goods Council of South Africa [CGCSA] and the Department of Social Development to provide food and […]
Sappi develops new, skin-friendly hand-sanitiser ingredient.
Dissolving pulp and paper-based solutions company Sappi has launched a skin- and planet-friendly hand hygiene ingredient – Valida – which is based on cellulose and is intended to be used by hygiene product manufacturers in products like hand sanitisers.Sappi developed the ingredient in cognisance of the impact that the daily use of hygiene products can […]
FNB, The Unlimited Child partner in distributing masks in KZN
As part of the KZN Maskathon initiative, FNB and RMB are facilitating the donation of masks to 80,000 families from vulnerable communities of the province.FNB has continued to partner with a non-profit organisation, The Unlimited Child, to distribute family mask packs via its validated network of early childhood development centres which include 1,200 creches in […]
Engen contributes further to fighting COVID-19, pledging R1m to FoodForward SA
Speaking following the official cheque handover in Cape Town, Khalid Latiff, Engen’s general manager: corporate strategy and communications, commended FoodForward SA for the incredible work they do addressing widespread hunger and food insecurity in South Africa.“As Engen, we are humbled to partner with FoodForward SA, who have escalated their already impressive food aid efforts following […]
BMW partners with SA, German govts in R76m project to upgrade hospitals
German car maker BMW and the German government will assist in upgrading eight South African hospitals and four clinics in the fight against Covid-19, in a project valued at R76-million.BMW will contribute 2.7-million Euros, with the German government to add 1.6-million Euros.In a virtual signing ceremony on June 29, BMW CEO Oliver Zipse, German Federal Minister […]
Mondi donates 100 000 medical grade masks to frontline healthcare workers
Global packaging and paper group Mondi has donated 100 000 FFP3/N95 medical grade masks to protect frontline healthcare workers in KwaZulu-Natal from Covid-19.The much sought after medical grade masks were donated with the assistance of The Solidarity Fund to the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health on June 15.The donation, at a cost of just under R10-million, is the result […]
How Nedbank Business Banking helps companies take on the COVID-19 challenge
The COVID-19 pandemic presents major challenges for many South African businesses.The spread of the virus has disrupted supply chains and delayed payments by debtors, and various parties now battle to meet their contractual obligations.The virus has also influenced employees in both financial and psychological respects.Click here to learn more about Nedbank Business Banking.Moreover, the COVID-19 […]
Woolworths donates R700,000 worth of product to healthcare facilities
Woolworths has announced its donation of R700,000 worth of bedding and towels to public healthcare facilities in South Africa. As lockdown measures have started to ease the Department of Health is gearing itself up for the anticipated increase in Covid 19 patients which will result in a shortfall of bed linen at public health care […]
Sanlam launches urgent job-preservation initiative in response to COVID-19
Sanlam Investments is responding to the COVID-19 pandemic through large-scale support of the recovery of South African companies, from small enterprises to corporates that employ a large number of people. Sanlam has committed R2.25 billion of its own capital to seed three funds with the core objective of preserving and creating jobs ̶ in a […]
Standard Bank, Sefa partner to help spaza shops
Standard Bank has partnered with the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (Sefa) to help spaza shops operating under the constraints of the Covid-19 pandemic.The agency helps spaza shops secure government funding, which can then be used to buy stock from Sefa-approved wholesalers at discounted prices.Standard Bank recognises its role in helping small businesses as they play […]
Covid-19: FNB gives R4.2bn relief to clients
FNB adopted a different approach to its Covid-19 financial relief for clients compared with the other banks, by offering a three month break on loans, telecommunications and insurance premium agreements the bank had with clients, with emergency relief funding, and so far some R4.2 billion of relief has been made available to clients.This was according […]
Old Mutual provides isolation facility for Western Cape Covid-19 efforts
ld Mutual has handed over a fully refurbished quarantine and self-isolation facility to Premier Alan Winde and Transport and Public Works Minister Bonginkosi Madikizela today, which will be used in the Western Cape’s fight against Covid-19. The company turned the former training centre and club house, located at the MuPine Golf Club in Pinelands into a […]
Transparency on pay could close the gap for women
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for progressive economic policies to address deep socio-economic inequalities in South Africa, including transparent pay reporting towards closing the persistent gender pay gap. Currently the gender pay gap sees South African women still earning up to 35% less¹ than men for doing the same work.If South Africa is […]
THE SOUTH AFRICAN BREWERIES FOR THE GOOD OF SOUTH AFRICA!
Mzansi’s biggest producer of alcohol beverages, The South African Breweries (SAB) is proud to unveil its collective response to supporting the fight against Covid-19 by helping to shield our heroes on the frontline of our defence as well as those most vulnerable during the lockdown period.The SAB’s efforts are undertaken by some of its beer […]
Vodacom IoT Solutions get people back to business safely
Vodacom has created specific digital solutions to support businesses keep employees and customers safe and navigate their return to work post-lockdown.Businesses will have to make changes to their regular operations in order to open and stay safe. The government has set out strict and official guidelines for companies going back to work that include firm […]
AECI provides water infrastructure for Hammanskraal communities
AECI has established a ‘filling station’ for the City of Tshwane to supply 40 000 ℓ of safe drinking water to the water-stressed Hammanskraal community amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
The initiative, which directly benefits 800 households and 5 000 people, will leverage an established AECI-sponsored borehole at the Phalesane Primary School. […]
Committed to Communities
As SAB, we looked for opportunities to partner with government and be a leader in the fight against COVID-19. We heeded government’s call to come together and help others through these uncertain times and be a beacon of positivity and hope. We realised that we could do more, to not only benefit us as a […]
COVID-19 Special Addition Newsletter
We are now transitioning into level 3 of the Covid-19 lockdown and our government has eased regulations, enabling more people working in key industries to return to work.
If one factors in the economic and social effects of a prolonged closure against a deftly phased reopening of our economy, you could well argue that our country has done well thus far. Our government’s approach has been lauded across the globe as being among the best […]
Transnet converts healthcare trains to bolster Covid-19 testing in underserviced areas
State-owned Transnet’s corporate social investment unit Transnet Foundation has converted two of its healthcare trains, Phelophepa I and II, into mobile Covid-19 testing stations. The trains will be used to increase testing for Covid-19 in some underserviced areas in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. The Solidarity Fund, together with the Transnet Foundation and the National Health Laboratory Service, has supplied testing kits and personal protective equipment to frontline healthcare staff […]
FirstRand’s Vumela Fund and ProfitShare Partners assist SMEs in supplying essential items for Covid-19
FirstRand’s Vumela Fund has committed an additional R25 million funding line to ProfitShare Partners (PSP) to support SMEs needing capital to supply essentials to fight Covid-19.PSP has been actively assisting a few SMEs since the start of lockdown to supply essential items, including the local manufacturing of hand sanitisers, face masks, other health personal protective […]
FNB assists 2300 small businesses with South African Future Trust funding
An estimated 2300 businesses have been signed up for the South African Future Trust (SAFT) funding scheme via FNB. According to the bank, These funds will enable 17367 employees to receive income for the next 3 months.FNB received more than 12000 qualifying SAFT applications from businesses who have been financially impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. In […]
Sasol hands over Covid-19 supplies to City of Johannesburg
JSE-listed Sasol on Wednesday donated 1 500 litres of hand sanitiser to the City of Johannesburg to be allocated to the most vulnerable facilities as part of its support for citizens across Gauteng during the Covid-19 crisis.The integrated chemicals and energy company brushed aside market woes, as the global energy market and oil price continues […]
FNB and Wesbank give payment breaks on 500,000 credit agreements
FNB and Wesbank have approved payment breaks on more than 500,000 credit agreements since the beginning of April.The banks have provided breaks or credit insurance assistance of more than R4.3bn for customers hit by Covid-19.FNB continued to scale up its support for businesses to help them manage the immediate effect of the lockdown, said CEO […]
Engen helps educate communities about Covid-19 through murals
South African oil company Engen has launched a campaign to support the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic by educating local communities on safety measures to curb the spread of the virus.Under the drive, 35 spaza (informal convenience) shops across South Africa are being branded with educational murals to convey important messages on personal safety.The messages, in a […]
Absa grants Covid-19 payment relief to retail and business banking account holders
The Absa Group has granted payment relief of R5.8 billion to about 376000 account holders in its retail and business banking (RBB) division to help its clients to deal with the Covid-19 outbreak. Deputy chief executive of retail and business banking at Absa Bongiwe Gangeni said the cash-flow relief has been offered to the bank’s customers […]
FNB announces help via Covid-19 loan scheme
First National Bank (FNB), a division of FirstRand, announced yesterday its clients could apply for a business loan through its Covid-19 loan scheme. The bank said it welcomed the president’s announcement of the R200 billion Covid-19 loan scheme, which would enable commercial banks to help businesses that were unable to meet their financial obligations during […]
Nedbank COVID-19 Response
From March 2020 we witnessed the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on individuals, families, businesses, societies and countries as infection rates escalated around the world and in SA. In response to this, governments globally have implemented emergency measures to curb the spread of the virus. At Nedbank we have and continue to work tirelessly to […]
Old Mutual Partnering to Provide Care during COVID-19
Collaborating to flatten the curve as well as address some of the more challenging socio-economic impacts of COVID-19 has been a common theme amongst many players recently, even before the lockdown started. The Covid-19 crisis has intensified and accelerated our efforts to support the most vulnerable communities in our society. More than R50 million has […]
Old Mutual Insure sets aside R60m towards premium relief for customers
Old Mutual Insure has set aside R60 million towards 15 percent motor premium discounts in April 2020 and 10 percent in May 2020 for qualifying personal lines customers to manage the financial fallout of Covid-19. Commercial and Agriculture customers who qualify will also receive a 10 percent motor premium discounts for both April 2020 and May […]
SA’s hunger is everyone’s problem – especially the well-fed
In a crisis, the urgency of need must trump market barriers. Now more than ever business must come together and act to save the vulnerable among us, writes Mary-Jane Morifi, Tiger Brands’ Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer. Covid-19 has split our already divided economy down two lines: either you’re essential or you’re not. So […]
Standard Bank grants over R1 billion instalment relief to 150 000 clients
Standard Bank South Africa revealed on Tuesday that it had granted relief to nearly 150 000 clients in need of financial support in the wake of the national lockdown amounting to more than R1 billion in instalment relief per month on the R44bn of total loans affected. The lender said in a statement that this […]
Woolworths allocates over R34m towards Covid-19 response
Woolworths has announced a commitment of over R34 million to support a variety of initiatives to meet the challenges of the Covid-19 crisis in South Africa. While its fashion, beauty and homeware businesses are all under lockdown, Woolworths continues to deliver its essential food provision service across the country, putting a significant number of its […]
ANGLO AMERICAN BUSINESS UPDATE IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19
Anglo American is today providing an update on the current status of its global operations, production guidance for 2020, and various actions it is taking across the business given the uncertainty surrounding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Anglo American Chief Executive, Mark Cutifani, said: “Ensuring the safety of our people, their families and our host […]
Nedbank announces new coronavirus financial relief measures – including help with home loans and overdrafts
Nedbank has expanded its relief measures and assistance for financially stressed clients to assist with overdrafts, home loans and certain waivers to merchants during the Covid-19 pandemic. The bank said that from April – June 2020, it will be offering clients that have an overdraft facility a temporary rebate. This rebate will be equivalent to […]
Covid-19: Santam to cut vehicle premiums by 20%, with further MiWay relief offered
JOHANNESBURG – Insurer Santam is to provide further financial relief for its customers following the extension of the national lockdown and will refund 20 percent of vehicle premiums paid this month for its clients. It also announced futher relief for customers of MiWay, a Santam subsidiary. Santam said yesterday in a statement that the new […]
Toyota reaffirms support during Covid-19
Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) and other Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) affiliates across the world are rising to the challenges posed by Covid-19 as well as the government-imposed regional lockdown regulations, but there also plans in place to prepare business operations for when the situation returns to some semblance of normality. Some of the […]
Pick n Pay offers customers digital vouchers ranging from R50 to R1000
Pick n Pay is now offering customers a new convenient way to purchase and send digital grocery vouchers to friends and loved ones. The vouchers are available through Webtickets or at any Pick n Pay Money counter. Vouchers values range from R50 up to R1000 and once purchased, customers can simply send the digital grocery voucher […]
BMW South Africa donates 40 000 high-grade masks to Gauteng govt
Responding to a call for help from the Gauteng Department of Health, BMW Group South Africa’s (BMW SA) has donated 40 000 protective respiratory (FFP2) face masks to the Gauteng government to assist health-service workers in their fight against Covid-19. FFP2 masks have a minimum of 94% filtration percentage and maximum 8% leakage to the inside. […]
Sappi starts production of essential medical items, donates to Solidarity Fund
Pulp and paper producer Sappi Southern Africa has made available several donations of scarce items such as hand sanitiser, face masks, nutritional porridge and paper products, to reduce pressure on the national government’s resources, as well as to support the most vulnerable during the Covid-19 pandemic. Following countrywide shortages of hand sanitiser, Sappi’s Pretoria-based science […]
AECI’s response plan for COVID-19
AECI established a task team in March 2020 to specifically manage the response to COVID-19. It is a pandemic having significant impact on people as well as business and economies throughout the world. In South Africa, a national state of disaster has been declared and the country entered lockdown on 26 March 2020. Various forms […]
Covid-19: One million litres of jet fuel to bring SA citizens home
In addition to donating the jet fuel, Sasol is also working with government in responding to the significant increase in demand for hygiene products.Sasol has donated a million litres of jet fuel to support the government’s efforts to repatriate hundreds of South Africans stranded in foreign countries due to the closing of borders as a […]
FUTURISTS DESCRIBE “BIGGEST SOCIETAL SHIFT SINCE WW2”
The Covid-19 pandemic and the lockdown of billions of people has unleashed the biggest societal shift since World War II, with repercussions likely to last.There will be much economic hardship but the changes will also include vast opportunities through massive rebuilding and the fast-tracking of new technologies, likely to take place in South Africa and around the […]
Discovery says members can apply to pay for medical aid from their savings account
Discovery has informed its medical aid scheme members they can apply to have their monthly fees paid for from their medical savings account. “For members who are on health plans with a medical savings account (MSA), Discovery Health Medical Scheme will allow members with a sufficient MSA balance to use their positive balance to pay […]
Clicks directors to donate a third of their salaries to Solidarity Fund
Clicks Group is the latest large retailer to announce the donation of a portion of senior management’s salaries towards the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic. In a statement released by the health and beauty retailer, Clicks Group said that its three executive directors, CEO Vikesh Ramsunder, CFO Michael Fleming and human resources director Bertina […]
Woolworths launches drive-through click and collect shopping service
Woolworths has a launched new contactless drive-through service, allowing shoppers to order online and collect without leaving their car.The group said that its first trial of the service was officially held at its Durbanville Food Store over the Easter weekend.“During these last few weeks, we have been focused on putting in place all the necessary […]
Vodacom donates 20000 smartphones and 100TB of data to Department of Health
Vodacom Group will donate 20000 smartphones plus 100 terabytes of data and 10 million voice calls minutes to the National Department of Health to support efforts in combating the spread of Covid-19 in South Africa. The devices and data will be used by frontline health workers to collect and transmit data in real time for […]
MTN bosses give up a third of their salaries as part of R250 million coronavirus relief plan.
MTN’s top executives will donate a third of their salaries as part of the company’s R250 million relief package in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the group said in a statement on Wednesday (15 April). “We believe it is the responsibility of all organisations to assist where they can during the pandemic,” said Mcebisi Jonas, […]
IDC COVID-19 Funding Interventions
Recent unprecedented global developments have had an immense impact on South Africa. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, we have suddenly found ourselves in uncharted waters. Although it’s too early to quantify the impact of the pandemic, many analysts believe that the global economy is headed for a downward spiral – barely 12 years after the […]
Old Mutual is giving R10,000 free cover to all healthcare workers
Old Mutual is making R4 billion worth of cover available to approximately 430,000 registered healthcare workers across South Africa. Unlike with traditional cover offered, this is neither a product nor a policy and no premiums will be recovered on it, the group said in a statement on Wednesday (8 April). “We were compelled to respond […]
Lockdown: PnP launches same-day grocery delivery
More than 70 stores already part of collaboration with alcohol delivery app. The Grocery Essentials app offers contactless same-day delivery with an online tracking facility for R60. Image: Supplied In the midst of the Covid-19 lockdown, supermarket giant Pick n Pay (PnP) is upping the ante in South Africa’s online retail game, by launching a […]
Tiger Brands Foundation supports beneficiary communities during lockdown
The Tiger Brands Foundation has distributed 6000 food hampers in communities where its beneficiary schools are located. The organisation provides in-school breakfast at over 100 non-fee paying schools across South Africa. “This is a very critical time for the country, and our learners specifically. Some of our learners come from food insecure families and we […]
Woolworths bosses are giving up a third of their salaries to pay staff extra during the coronavirus lockdown
Woolworths has published a trading statement outlining how Covid-19 and the country’s lockdown are currently affecting its business. The group said that the impact of the virus is being felt across all markets in which it operates ,and it is now ‘considering strategic options’ to best mitigate the impacts of the crisis and to ensure […]
FNB offers additional help to assist SMEs with alternative funding
FNB has committed to helping small businesses with alternative funding support, critical business support resources, links to various government resources and private funding initiatives. the bank has launched a portal under the “Covid-19 – For My Business” menu on the FNB App or Online Banking, where SME customers in need of help can register their […]
Illovo SA steps up fight against Covid-19
Illovo Sugar Africa is responding to the Covid-19 outbreak by reconfiguring its medical infrastructure to deal directly with any potential Covid-19 infection within its own business, or the surrounding communities. Commemorating World Health Day on 7 April, the sugar producer announced how it has converted its existing medical infrastructure to zero-in on combating the outbreak […]
Catalyst Solutions: COVID-19 Relief Measures
COVID-19 RELIEF MEASURES A number of relief measures were announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa on 23 March 2020 with more information on the specific workings of each made available over the course of the past two weeks. The majority of available relief measures are allocated and set aside to benefit “Small Business”. Catalyst would however like […]
A letter from our CEO
Our first week of national lockdown and I am sure that many of you (like me) have found yourselves in situations that we could never have imagined. Whilst the lockdown is neither straightforward nor easy; I can assure you that we are doing everything in our power to make sure that those stores remaining open […]
Nedbank pledges R12m to help alleviate the Covid-19 pandemic
JOHANNESBURG – Nedbank has committed to helping alleviate hunger and provide emergency relief to the most vulnerable South African communities during the current Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic that has gripped the country and the world at large. In response to the pandemic, Nedbank has pledged a R12 million donation in aid of hunger relief efforts, and […]
Tiger Brands
What NBI Member Company Tiger Brands is doing in response to COVID-19: Hand sanitizers Our basket of products hasn’t included hand sanitizers before. Now watch Yann Trevian, MD of our Home and Personal Care division speak about the high-quality alcohol-based hand sanitizers produced for all our staff and their families, especially colleagues who are working […]
Discovery and Vodacom now offer free online coronavirus screening and consultations to all South Africans
Discovery and Vodacom have launched a new platform which will make online coronavirus screening and consultations available to all South Africans. The platform provides easy access for all South Africans to a Covid-19 risk tool and will allow you to immediately schedule healthcare professional consultations and get advice,the companies said. “The Covid-19 risk assessment and […]
Santam announces insurance and financial assistance measures for Covid-19
The Santam Group says it will make R200 million available as Covid-19 relief for clients, suppliers, and to contribute to the government’s Solidarity Fund. The group said it will also try to help to flatten the coronavirus curve through additional Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiatives, while assisting its employees to deal with the impact of […]
Sasol Foundation offers free online education resources during lockdown
As a response to the global coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, The Sasol Foundation has opened its online education resources and textbooks platform to all learners and parents free of charge. Called Siyavula, the online education platform is usually a pay subscription service but has been made available to all South Africans free of charge during this […]
Pick n Pay rolls out perspex screens at till points to prevent the spread of Covid-19
Perspex screens are being rolled out at all Pick n Pay till points countrywide as preventative measures to stop the spread of the coronavirus. According to the retailer, the transparent screens – mounted at the till and situated between cashiers and customers – have already been installed in over 300 stores and are being rolled […]
FirstRand establishes R100m Pandemic Intervention Relief Effort
JSE-listed financial services group FirstRand yesterday established a R100 million South African Pandemic Intervention and Relief Effort (Spire) fund to assist the government and its partners in mitigating the impact of the Covid-19 epidemic. The group said Spire was funded by the FirstRand Foundations, FNB and RMB and was working closely with the Solidarity Response […]
Africa: Johnson & Johnson Announces a Lead Vaccine Candidate for COVID-19
Landmark New Partnership with U.S. Department of Health & Human Services; and Commitment to Supply One Billion Vaccines Worldwide for Emergency Pandemic Use Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ) (the Company) today announced the selection of a lead COVID-19 vaccine candidate from constructs it has been working on since January 2020; the significant expansion of the […]
Vodacom and Department of Social Development to support victims of gender-based violence during the national lockdown
Local gender experts and activists expect a steep rise in the number of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) cases during the 21-day national lockdown declared by government in a bid to halt the spread of coronavirus. Vodacom, in partnership with the Department of Social Development (DSD), are operating a GVB Command Centre that is run by highly […]
COVID-19 – Letter from Shameel
Many of you are facing new challenges as the country puts measures in place to limit the spread of CoronaVirus (COVID-19). It will take a huge collective effort to help government and society cope with this situation so we wanted to inform you of the measures that Vodacom is putting in place to keep you confidently […]
COVID-19 Payment Relief Programme
Absa launches extensive COVID-19 payment relief programmeRelief for consumer, business banking and wealth customersBespoke solutions for corporate and business banking clientsAdditional administration fees waivedTo allow benefits to reach more customers, those who can pay are encouraged to continue paymentsProgramme applies to all Absa markets, subject to legislation, regulations and conditions applicable in each countryAs South […]
Woolworths donates R500 000 to support medical workers
Woolworths and its community loyalty programme MySchool MyVillage MyPlanet have donated R500 000 to the Gift of the Givers Foundation to support medical workers with protective wear and equipment. The retailer on Tuesday issued a statement indicating that it had partnered with Gift of the Givers as it is a recognised partner in government’s Covid-19 […]
How ABB is helping to tackle the coronavirus crisis
Having led several industrial companies over the course of my career, I can truly say that the job of running a business has changed almost beyond recognition in recent weeks. Since I took over as CEO of ABB on March 1, COVID-19 has become a global pandemic, affecting the lives of billions of people, and […]
FNB’s three-month payment holiday, R100m for Covid-19 pandemic relief
FNB on Monday announced relief for its customers whose incomes have been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic – no installment payments on personal loans, home loans and car loans for April, May and June, with those amounts to be paid off over time with a “preferential” interest rate and no added fees. “That’s about 45% […]
Standard Bank offers payment holiday to customers earning R7,500 or less
Standard Bank customers earning R7,500 or less will receive three months’ instalment relief on their personal accounts — provided they are not in arrears — within days. The announcement was made by the bank on Sunday as part of its efforts to help customers navigate their financial commitments as Covid-19 makes an impact on the […]
Nedbank Payment Arrangements
PR HOLDING STATEMENT “Nedbank is mindful of the economic impact the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to have on our clients, many of whom are already under pressure due to the country’s low levels of economic growth. In keeping with our purpose of using our financial expertise to do good for individuals, families, businesses and society, […]
South Africa challenged to ‘Stay In’ but also to ‘Reach Out’
A new initiative aims to maintain important human connections while we are social distancing at home Johannesburg, 30 March 2020: Today South Africans woke up to the realities of a first Monday morning in lockdown. None of the usual routines apply and the big ‘quiet’ feels strange to us all. In these challenging and unprecedented […]
Distell to Supply Sanitisers to Vulnerable Communities
Distell, Africa’s leading producer and marketer of spirits, fine wines, ciders and ready-to-drinks (RTDs), today announced that it will begin producing hand sanitisers and other hygienic products at its production facilities as part of its efforts to help curb the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. “Our priority as Distell – right now and always […]
Old Mutual pledges R50-million towards comprehensive COVID-19 response
Old Mutual Limited today announced that it would be pledging R50-million toward a comprehensive COVID-19 response, in partnership with government, business, labour and civil society. This relief package would primarily be channeled towards educational initiatives that address both immediate and emerging needs across the sector, brought about by the impact of COVID-19. The business has, […]
Discovery’s support for you during the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown
On Monday evening, President Ramaphosa announced wide-reaching and important measures to ensure that South Africa is best-positioned to manage the COVID-19 pandemic. The steps announced are critical to “flatten the curve” and reflect global best practice in how we, as a nation, address the challenge. As Discovery, our core purpose of making people healthier and […]
WATCH: How food security can be maintained while fighting Covid-19
Tiger Brands CEO Noel Doyle talks to Business Day TV about panic buying and food security Sanitisers, toilet paper and canned foods — these are some of the items that are flying off retail shelves. How could panic buying affect food security? Read More Here
Letter from our Director, Advice for Entrepreneurs, the African Economy, and Corporates Embracing Tech
Dear USB community We have entered a critical phase in attempts to curtail the spread of the coronavirus in South Africa. You have received information on how we had to adapt our original plans to continue with our academic programmes. The situation has compelled us to suspend our activities until 16 April, with a review […]
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