Twala worried of coronavirus impact on the poor
ALEXANDRA – The basics in Coronavirus defence not in place among the poor
Alex’s foremost philanthropist, Linda Twala urged for the activation of proactive responses on the coronavirus at grassroots level.
The disease has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization and compelled President Cyril Ramphosa to declare a state of disaster to help mitigate its spread.
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Twala is concerned that township and shack residents are at higher risk than those better off in society. “Those who came through the airports, with medical aid and financial security are protected [compared to] thousands of poor citizens with very little to acquire and secure their basic needs,” he said.
“Very little is said about protecting many who are homeless and sleep under bridges, forced into drug and substance addiction due to their circumstances and the elderly who need to be lifted and touched as part of their daily care,” Twala said urging for vigorous awareness campaigns to halt the spread of the virus.
“Many who are illiterate, homeless, unemployed and live in conditions that are conducive to its spread miss out on the message. We need user-friendly pamphlets, and proactive local leadership operating from the front as they are better predisposed to mitigation measures if they are affected.
“Also, loudhailers should be used on a regular basis to heighten awareness, respond to questions and prepare the residents on the impending danger. It’s heartbreaking to contemplate what will happen.”
Twala added that many of the poor couldn’t access water and flush toilets, and sanitisers for public use were not available at main public service points. “The poor can’t afford to buy them, masks and gloves are not available and there is no clarity on government support for testing said to be R1 500.”
He said only a vigorous and sustained campaign would reduce a possible catastrophe among shack residents saying their numbers increase daily with the arrival of migrants.
“Our porous borders don’t let in only tourists but anyone hoping for a better life in Johannesburg. Their starting point is among the poor where they integrate easily and can’t be accounted for.”
Twala blamed the ineptness of government for this migration, saying it should control entry into the country better, provide housing to depopulate the township, maintain environmental health and ensure proactive, responsive and accountable leadership at grassroots level.
Also, he urged the government to use churches, schools, churches, sports and service centres and old age homes as shelters for displaced people. “They are accessible and user friendly and can provide refuge for those requiring support during a state of disaster or emergency.”
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