Sertum Energy Namibia Director Elton Katangolo has called on the private sector and civil society organisations to prioritize helping communities in dire need during trying times.
Katangolo made the call in a speech read on his behalf when his company donated 110 food parcels to the Swakopmund Municipality on Thursday.
He said by donating the food parcels, Sertum Energy is heeding the call by the government for private sector companies to lend a helping hand to those in need.
“Sertum Energy further commends the government’s continued efforts to intensify control and preventive measures in the fight to contain the spread of the coronavirus,” Katangolo said.
The municipality has through the Ministry of Health and Social Services identified unemployed persons from households in Swakopmund to benefit from the donation, in addition to members of the community who have reached out to the mayoral office seeking assistance.
Swakopmund Mayor Nehemiah Salomon said the donation has come at an opportune time as the council will not be able to assist all its community members who are in need of food.
“We, therefore, rely on our stakeholders to assist where possible during this challenging time in order to achieve this goal as we cannot do it on our own. The COVID-19 pandemic has reminded us that we need to stand together in compassion and solidarity as we all strive to combat not only the pandemic but any challenge that comes our way. The response from our stakeholders during this time has been remarkable in this regard,” Salomon stated.
The council has implemented a number of ways to assist those in need and has established a database that consists of more than 1 000 individuals who have no means of income.
The mayor emphasised the importance of effective sound stakeholder relations, not only during a pandemic but at all times.