All the latest coronavirus and lockdown updates
The critical PPE shipment, which was secured through Naspers’ long-standing relationships in China, is the first of multiple shipments that will be distributed to frontline healthcare workers. The next shipments are expected to arrive within a week.
Commenting on the delivery, Naspers South Africa CEO Phuti Mahanyele-Dabengwa said: “The collaboration and joint action between governments, business and civil society has been excellent. We hope our first shipment, which is one of many to come, will support the many selfless healthcare workers in our country.”
Bob van Dijk, Naspers Group CEO said: “We are grateful to all those that have made this delivery a reality, especially the South African government and our Chinese partners for their continuous support throughout the process.”
Kim Reid, Takealot CEO, added: “We will use our extensive warehousing and distribution capability to ensure these critical medical supplies reach hospitals, frontline workers and those in need as quickly as possible. We are humbled and privileged to be part of this important collaborative effort to help our fellow South Africans.”
Naspers announced on 31 March that it would commit R1.5 billion in emergency funding to aid the government’s response to the coronavirus outbreak, Fin24 reported.
The government set up the fund to assist in combating the outbreak in the country.
News24 is a publication of Media24, an affiliate of Naspers
– Stay healthy and entertained during the national lockdown. Sign up for our Lockdown Living newsletter. Register and manage your newsletters in the new News24 app by clicking on the Profile tab
