Absa Bank Zambia says it has contributed K724, 000 towards the COVID-19 crisis to local non-profit Global Developmental Organizations (GDOs).
In a statement availed to Money FM News, Bank Marketing and Communications Manager Banji Lufungulo cited World Vision Zambia, WaterAid Zambia, John Snow Health Zambia and PATH Zambia as the Global Developmental Organizations.
Ms. Lufungulo said the Bank remains committed to bringing possibilities to life by being a force for good in communities it operates, especially with the prevalence of COVID-19 affecting different economic sectors and society.
And speaking during the donation, Absa Acting Managing Director, Venus Hampinda said K724, 000 contribution to organizations working to minimize the impact of the COVID-19 crisis speaks into the Banks’ tenet of Africana city- getting things done amidst challenges.
Ms. Hampinda disclosed that as the COVID-19 pandemic became prevalent earlier in 2020, the financial institution supported the Ministry of Health’s efforts to fight the pandemic by donating 20 Oximeters, roofing sheets and blankets to flood victims in Luapula Province through the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) at a cost of K320, 000.
“As a Bank, our focus transcends profit-making and we will continue to look for avenues where we can positively impact society through the various citizenship initiatives.”
“On 14 April 2020, Absa Bank Zambia PLC became the first Bank in the country to offer a relief payment package to customers whose income was adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and has disbursed about K630 million to more than 370 customers,” Ms. Hampinda said.
She further revealed that the Bank proactively put measures in branches, at Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) as well as office premises to prevent the spread of the disease.
Ms. Hampinda thanked Absa’s partners for the collaboration on initiatives and projects in local communities to combat the pandemic such as purchase of hygiene supplies and personal protective equipment in Kafue District by World Vision Zambia, and purchase of basic infection prevention control material for waste management and environmental cleanliness at Levy Mwanawasa Teaching Hospital and Evelyn Hone College by WaterAid Zambia.
She stated that other projects include purchase of personal protective equipment and hospital supplies for adults at Arthur Wina Hospital in Nalolo, Western Province by John Snow Health Zambia and procurement of surgical face masks, hand sanitizers, liquid hand washing soap, biohazard waste disposal bags and pedal waste bins on the Copperbelt by PATH Zambia.
“Absa Bank Zambia PLC continues to monitor the COVID-19 pandemic whilst prioritizing the safety of employees and customers at the various touch points and will continue to review the situation as guided by the authorities.”