Bank Donates Ksh50 Million to Govt

The Absa Bank PLC building along Waiyaki Way, Westlands.
The Absa Bank PLC building along Waiyaki Way, Westlands.
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Absa Bank Kenya PLC on Tuesday, April 21, committed Ksh50 million towards the fight against Covid-19 in order to help supplement government efforts in containing the spread, effects and impact of of the disease in Kenya.

Ksh20 Million from the contribution will be channelled directly to the Covid-19 Emergency Response Fund towards the acquisition of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) and other additional support for health workers in line with the Fund’s immediate priorities.

The remaining Ksh30 Million will directly be invested in various initiatives that have been designed to help individuals and business get through the pandemic including a psychosocial support programme through which the bank will provide a mental wellness care centre for Covid-19 patients, health workers and caregivers.

Absa Bank Kenya PLC Managing Director Jeremy Awori shares a selfie moment with his staff on February 10, 2020.
Absa Bank Kenya PLC Managing Director Jeremy Awori shares a selfie moment with his staff on February 10, 2020.
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The programme is also set to offer round the clock counselling services to Kenyans suffering from psychological and mental distress occasioned by the pandemic.

Absa Kenya Managing Director Jeremy Awori called on Kenyans to actively play their role in minimising the economic and social impact of Covid-19 on the country.

“We all can do something, however big or small, that will get us closer to winning the fight against this pandemic. Extending care to our caregivers –the medical workers- is one of the outstanding areas that require urgent support and this is the call we are responding to as an organisation,” Awori said.

Absa Kenya is also set to roll out a training mentorship programme in partnership with various organisations and individuals, for SMEs to help them survive through the period of the pandemic, the programme shall be coordinated through the Covid-19 Emergency Response Fund.

“SMEs are the heartbeat of our economy and we understand that this is a very difficult time for them. We have rolled out a number of initiatives to support them through this journey, including offering them bespoke loan repayment relief options, financial training around working capital/cash-flow management during times like these, as well as a commitment to pay all our SME supplier invoices within 14 days,” Awori added.

He applauded the government for the relentless efforts towards the containment and elimination of the Coronavirus.

“Kenyans are resilient people, always finding ways to overcome challenges and we have no doubt that, though the current situation seems difficult, we shall prevail. As an organisation that is committed to being a force for good, we will continue to explore more opportunities to join hands with our fellow Kenyans in order to surmount the Covid-19 pandemic.” 

Traders at a market in Kenya.
Traders at a market in Kenya.
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