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 […]
Covid19
Dear B4SA and healthcare colleagues You will undoubtedly have followed developments over the past few days related to the South African COVID-19 vaccine acquisition and rollout programme. Colleagues will be aware that we established the B4SA vaccine platform to provide up-to-date information on bilateral and multilateral engagements with government, hopefully enabling businesses to respond to […]
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 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 […]
B4SA extends its gratitude to all healthcare workers in South Africa Vaccine Update Dear B4SA and healthcare colleagues You will no doubt have followed developments over the past few days related to the South African COVID-19 vaccine acquisition and rollout programme. Colleagues will be aware that the B4SA vaccine platform was established to provide the […]
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 […]
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 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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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, 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 […]
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), […]
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 […]
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 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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 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 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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 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 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. [...]
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 […]
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 [...]
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, […]
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 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 […]
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 […]
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 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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 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 […]
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 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 […]
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 […]
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 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 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 […]
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 […]
President Cyril Ramaphosa, on Tuesday night, announced a three-month delay in first carbon tax payments as part of an extensive set of financial measures worth R500 billion to help companies deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. Where the payment deadline was originally set to be 31 July 2020, this has now been postponed to 31 October […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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. […]
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 […]
Government Ministers today presented amendments to the current lockdown restrictions as follows: Restaurants and takeaway establishments are to remain closed, and supermarkets open to sell essential goods. The new rules emphasise that the transport of alcohol is not allowed except where required for industries producing certain essential products such as hand sanitisers, disinfectants, soap etc. Essential […]
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 […]
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. […]
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 […]
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 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 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 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 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’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, […]
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 […]
“….. we will draw on our strengths: our abundant natural resources, our advanced infrastructure, our deep financial markets, our proven capabilities in information and communication technology, and the depth of talent among our people. We will draw on our proven capacity for innovation and creativity, our ability to come together in a crisis, and our […]
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 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 […]
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 […]
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 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 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 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 […]
One of the measures that is designed to provide relief to employers and employees is the C-19 TERS benefit. On 3 April 2020, the Minister of Employment and Labour issued a revised Directive under the Disaster Management Regulations that will regulate these benefits. In addition, the benefits are subject to the terms of the memorandum […]
The effect of South Africa's Covid-19 lockdown on businesses and their employees will be harsh, so the government will be taking several steps to support individuals and small businesses.Firstly, support will be given to people whose livelihoods will be affected by the 21-day lockdown through a special dispensation for companies that are in distress because […]
In the wake of the announcement of the national shutdown, the Minister of Employment and Labour has announced the introduction of measures in response to coronavirus (Covid-19) and its impact on UIF contributors. There has also been the establishment of a Rapid Response Teams to be deployed to each province to assist companies with processing […]
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 […]
Dear Fellow South African, One thing we have learnt about the coronavirus over the last three months is that it does not respect borders. It has spread across Asia, Europe, North, Central and South America and Africa. Distinctions of wealth, poverty, nationality, race and class have been rendered meaningless as infections grow in developed and developing countries […]
As the Covid-19 crisis unfolds, the focus of business leaders and others has been on immediate responses and short-term time horizons. This is for good reason. Yet there are initial signs of how the crisis may be shaping longer-term assumptions about business and its context. The spread of the pandemic has brought to the fore the need for […]
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 […]
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 […]
Presentation by Ricardo Hausmann “Just when developing countries need to manage the pandemic, most have seen their fiscal space evaporate,” says Professor Ricardo Hausmann, one of the world’s leading experts on what drives economic growth, especially in developing countries. Hausmann provides an excellent analysis of the macro-economic implications of COVID-19 as well as recommendations for […]
Facing unprecedented times globally, this COVID-19 challenge calls for focus, creative thinking, cooperation and collaborative action. COVID-19 is impacting us all, in all walks of life, to the core and dramatically demonstrates our inter-connectivity and interdependence. It is profoundly challenging human health and the human spirit. From a business point of view, this is a defining […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 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 […]
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 […]
In response to the current COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa, the Green Book is providing access to information to assist with risk and vulnerability mapping and analysis. The team has created vulnerability indicators in support of identifying high-risk areas in our country, considering health susceptibility and transmission potential.The information provided includes:Population distribution.Informality hotspots.National economic vulnerability.National socio-economic […]
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 […]
The African Development Bank (AAA) has raised an exceptional $3 billion in a three-year bond to help alleviate the economic and social impact the Covid-19 pandemic will have on livelihoods and Africa’s economies. The Fight Covid-19 Social bond, with a three-year maturity, garnered interest from central banks and official institutions, bank treasuries, and asset managers […]
Nontsundu Ndonga in uMhlathuze, South Africa, is now requiring all applications to the planning department to be completed online to eliminate the need for in-person consultations. Chris Castro in Orlando, Florida, USA, has had to postpone all of the city’s in-person Earth Day activities. Lotte Suveri, in Turku, Finland, has put all their social media […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 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 […]
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 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 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 […]
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, […]
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, 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 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, […]
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 […]
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
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 […]
The COVID-19 outbreak demands immediate action—leaders have to do what’s right to protect people, customers, and companies. Use BCG’s checklist to ensure team health and safety, business strength, financial resilience, and execution clarity during a crisis. Read More
NBI NewsFlash, 27 March 2020 The NBI and BUSA COVID-19 Water Task Team has commenced with an emergency water response to combat the coronavirus. The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has identified about 2 000 communities that have no water services to facilitate hand washing to reduce the risk of infection and has […]
The National Business Initiative (NBI) fully supports the national effort to limit the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) in South Africa. We stand behind the message delivered by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday, 15 March 2020. We also entirely support organised business in its commitment to support the Government at this critical time. To confirm, […]