Sanlam and Santam today threw their weight in support of the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) COVID-19 initiative with a sponsorship of two hundred and fifty thousand dollars (N$250 000.00) each. Bringing their combined contribution to five hundred thousand dollars (N$500 000.00). The sponsorship is part of the NCCI’s COVID-19 initiative which has seen several private sector companies join hands to support our government’s efforts in the fight against the pandemic in the country.
Responding to the call by NCCI for private sector companies to join the initiative, both Sanlam and Santam came together and will contribute towards the construction of temporary medical facilities and supply medical equipment. Speaking on the handover, Sanlam Group CEO Tertius Stears said, “There has never been a more pivotal time for stakeholders to unify with a common goal as now. The collaboration between the different players is what is needed for the country to fight the spread of the pandemic. As responsible corporate citizens, both Sanlam and Santam, understand the urgency required to stop the spread of COVID-19 in the country and this is why we have formed a coalition to assist where we can. The objectives of the coalition are well aligned with those of Sanlam and Santam and that the two companies have an interest in a healthy Namibia.”
Echoing the same sentiment, Santam CEO Franco Feris said, “Humanity is one of the pillars that form part of the Santam values. Namibian citizens form part of our workforce and as the private sector we need to come together and give back to the communities in which we operate, play an important role in supporting our societies. That shows humanity. We are Namibian for Namibians, standing together in the fight against this pandemic”
The sponsorship from Sanlam and Santam will go towards equipment for the field hospital located at the Windhoek Central Hospital which was set up by the coalition to respond to the high demand for hospital space for positive patients. This equipment includes among others beds, mattresses, oxygen etc.
Both Sanlam and Santam call on other private sector companies to come on board and support the NCCI in this initiative as more funding is still required to ensure they meet their set objectives which include among others a field hospital in Oshakati and continuous supply of oxygen.