Buyanga donates to Zimbabweans in South Africa: An SOS call for assistance during the South African government-imposed lockdown was yesterday answered as many South Africans and those from neighbouring nations living in the Republic endure the current global health crisis.
The Zimbabwe Community in South Africa (ZCSA) were aided by the business tycon Frank Buyanga Sadiq’s African Medallion Group (AMG) with the provision of basic food essentials to over one hundred Zimbabwean families currently living in South Africa.
This donation comes after heartfelt requests by the community for immediate relief during these challenging times.
“We have come here today to answer the call made by our African brothers and sisters from Zimbabwe currently plying their trade across various sectors of industry in South Africa,
tremendously affected by the global COVID-19 pandemic,” said Itai Maunganidze the chief executive officer AMG.
He said their mission was to provide food relief to communities affected by the coronavirus and subsequent lockdown.
“The commitment to serve our communities including those from our neighbouring countries
has never been more important as we collectively, as a continent, try navigate the unprecedented challenges posed by this global pandemic. COVID-19 is affecting most people quite harshly, with some out of employment and sources of income. So our work here today is to instill hope and care amongst the Zimbabwean people as government encourages us all to stay at home.
“The expressions of appreciation on the faces of the beneficiaries shows that this was a much needed relief.”
AMG’s funding which will be disbursed throughout 2020 is coordinated by both the AMG and Hamilton Foundations, building on the company’s legacy of philanthropic support in the communities it serves.
The Zimbabwe Community in South Africa is an affiliate of the African Diaspora Forum, a group focused on uniting the migrant community in South Africa.
The organisation was formed in 2014 in response to documentation challenges.
To date, over 198 000 Zimbabweans are on special permits.
“As the ZCSA we are excited to receive this relief from the AMG Foundation,” said Ngqabutho Mabhena chairman of the group.
“We have been receiving calls from Zimbabweans and other migrants living in South Africa expressing their need for food aid ever since the lockdown was implemented.
“Today, thanks to AMG, 120 families have been assisted with food packs which can atleast keep them going for a few more days and we hope that other business people will hear our
cries during this time.”