Medical staff and those screening and testing citizens for the Covid-19 virus have been in desperate need of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
The essential equipment, which ensure the safety of these frontline fighters of the pandemic has been in high demand, with global shortages a major cause for concern.
South Africa is currently doing over 6 000 tests daily, with a total of 3 465 cases report, and total of 58 people who have lost their live to the Covid-19 virus.
In the face of this global pandemic, Naspers confirmed it would be contributing R500 million to the Solidarity Response Fund and is procuring R1 billion worth of PPE and other medical supplies through its partnerships with Tencent and the Chinese government.
On Monday, 20 April the first shipment of personal protective equipment arrived in South Africa - consisting of 275 600 KN95 masks and 100 000 face shields.
Within a week, the next shipments of PPE are also expected to arrive at OR Tambo International Airport.
South Africa CEO Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa says, “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.”
The critical PPE, which was secured through Naspers’s long-standing relationships in China, is the first of multiple shipments that will be distributed to front-line healthcare workers.
Bob van Dijk, Group CEO says, “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.”
The distribution of the equipment will see Takealot use it "extensive warehousing and distribution capability to ensure these critical medical supplies reach hospitals, front-line 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," says Kim Reid, CEO of Takealot.
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