SA Chamber of Commerce (UK) launches Solidarity Walk to help South Africa with Covid-19 devastation
JOBURG – People in different localities, regions and countries can set up their own routes to walk together, socially distanced, for mutual moral support, or participants can choose their own routes.
A once-off event to raise funds to help mitigate the devastation caused by Covid-19 has been launched by the South African Chamber of Commerce (UK).
The Solidarity Walk will take place anywhere from the comfort of the participant’s home, at any time and any day they wish to take part in, as long as it is within the three days – from 29 August to 31 August.
Chair of the Chamber Sharon Constançon said, “Unlike the UK and other advanced economies, the South African government doesn’t have the luxury of offering significant levels of direct financial support to the huge numbers of families and communities that are struggling as a consequence of lockdown. The millions of people going hungry have touched our hearts, and we wanted to do something to raise money for those devastated by the pandemic. As a result, the idea of the Solidarity Walk was conceived. “
The Solidarity Walk is a global call for people to join and collectively cover 2 414 miles (3 862km). “If you’ve got some free time over the UK bank holiday weekend of 29 to 31 August, then put on your takkies (sneakers) and contribute some steps. Walk, run, hike, treadmill – whatever works for you. And while you’re at it why not encourage family, friends, colleagues and friends of South Africa to join in?” said Constançon.
People in different localities, regions and countries can set up their own routes to walk together, socially distanced, for mutual moral support, or participants can choose their own routes.
The total distance will be displayed on the SA Chamber website along with a moving map to show current progress in miles. Another counter will show the total funds raised with all donations going directly to the Solidarity Fund.
“Through our international business and trade networks, we are welcoming registrations from business leaders, professionals, front-line workers, families, or individuals – if you are from South Africa, or a friend of South Africa, then please take part and make a real difference. With the strength of our currency, we have an opportunity to do much with little – our contribution can stretch that much further when we send the money to South Africa through the trusted Solidarity Fund.”
Individuals and businesses will be recognised by the SA Chamber and Certificates awarded for their contribution to this unique one-off global event.
Emma Wade Smith OBE, who is the Her Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Africa, resident in Johannesburg and on the Advisory Board of the Chamber, added, “This is a wonderful initiative which has the potential to make a very real difference to the many people in South Africa for whom life has got a whole lot harder as a result of the pandemic. I will certainly be covering some miles at the end of this month in support of this event. I encourage everyone who has ever experienced the wonders of South Africa and counts themselves a friend of this extraordinary country to join in. Let’s channel the spirit of Captain Tom and walk or run to raise money – safely – to help South Africa respond to and recover from the health and economic impact of Covid-19.”
To truly make a difference to South Africa, register your participation in the walk today here.
Details: www.southafricanchamber.co.uk
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