Solidarity Fund: R1.2 billion spent on protective gear

More than half of the R2.1 billion raised for the Solidarity Fund has been disbursed towards acquiring 35 million pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE) and food support for those in need.

President Cyril Ramaphosa established the fund in March to generate money for resources to be used in South Africa’s efforts to counter COVID-19.

CEO Nomkhita Nqweni said during a virtual briefing on Friday, 14 May 2020 that PPE including N95 masks, gloves and ventilators had been purchased.

Most parts of the local economy have been ground to a halt as the country has been placed on level four of the lockdown, which allows some sectors to operate. Ramaphosa is holding consultations with the National Coronavirus Command Council on moving to level three.

300 000 families receive food assistance

The fund has also delivered food support to 300 000 families across the country, which is beyond its initial target of 250 000, as part of human relief efforts.

It will also be launching a number of more sustainable methods of relief including food vouchers and cash systems to reach households that fall outside of the social grant net or who are still going to be experiencing severe food insecurity as a result of the continued economic fallout.

R250 million has also been allocated towards the National Health Laboratory Services to double their order of test kits, which would further aid them in conducting the necessary mass testing.

175 000 South Africans from all walks of life as well as 1 500 corporates and foundations have opened up their wallets and contributed to the fund. Those donating a portion of their salaries have so far generated  more than R16 million  in contributions.

“An incredible demonstration of generosity towards their fellow compatriots”, the Fund said in a statement.

“In the six weeks since the establishment of the Fund, the Solidarity Fund has become a fully-fledged operation, with a credible board, sub-committees, fund administration, as well as external and internal auditors in place. More than 90 full-time voluntary staff across a network of 21 companies and organisations are providing support services to the Fund, all on a pro bono basis, with no one earning fees or a salary from the Fund”

“By setting up solid institutional and governance frameworks, we have been able to demonstrate the necessary rigour and professionalism in how contributions to the Fund are deployed”, said Nqweni.