Spotong Issue 34

HEINEKEN LENDS A HAND 12

MEN, STAND UP AGAINST GENDERBASED VIOLENCE NOW 14

SURFACE SAFETY TO STOP THE SPREAD OF COVID-19 42

Issue 34

T

RICE DOE S BETTER T N t HAN GE T

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2020/08/06 15:49

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CONTENTS www.spotongmag.co.za

CONTENTS

In this Issue

E T O N S ’ R O T I D E

“S

outh African” is almost synonymous with the word “resilient”. Our nation continuously and consistently rises above difficult situations, creating hope in the direst of situations.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, the business owners of our nation heeded the call, demonstrating South African resilience once again. At a time when “business as usual” operations were ground to a halt, we saw many South African businesses totally pivot their line of work to an essential service. These small businesses seized the opportunity, not only to put food on their table, but to provide a service that the country, and its businesses, desperately need.

In this edition, we feature seven heroic ladies who are an outstanding example of adaptability and who ensured that their businesses not only survived the Covid-19 pandemic but made an impact while doing so by making taverns safer.

The Education MEC for the Eastern Cape, Fundile Gade, recently ordered legal action against a company that supplied sanitisers to Makaula Senior Secondary School, where 204 pupils and staff tested positive for Covid-19. The company also supplied nine other schools in the district with a product that was found to be sub-standard, containing very low volumes of alcohol. The question is how many other products out there are similar to this? How effective are the products you’re using and how long will they actually

last on the surfaces they are applied to? And how long should they remain on the applied surface before you wipe them off? This could be anywhere you’re likely to touch — from doorknobs and light switches to chairs, remote controls and table surfaces. And in the case of businesses, even more areas are included. In our health and safety feature, we take a look at surface safety to stop the spread of Covid-19 and Burt Rodrigues, CEO of Biodx, shares insights with us.

Strange as it may seem, right now is an excellent time to buy your first property. A record low repo rate and record high home-loan approvals are combining to afford first-time buyers an advantageous opportunity for getting into the property market. In our property feature, we take a look at how the Finance-Linked Individual Subsidy Programme (FLISP) can assist you in taking advantage of the buyer’s market and owning your very own home.

And of course, we bring you the latest industry news to keep you up to date, new retail and liquor products for your shelves, recipes to try at home and much, much more. Spotong will always be committed to bringing township traders the news, resources and advice that they need. We welcome your views and feedback so drop us an e-mail on info@spotongmag.co.za

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COLUMNS NTHA Mourns the passing of SALTHA president Churchill Mrasi GLF: Liquor traders suffer during Covid-19 lockdown SALTA: A fond farewell to Alex Leader, Bra Mish

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MAIN FEATURE Meet the women whose 60 000 cloth masks make taverns safer

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FEATURES 10 R1-Billion injected into township and rural economy 11 Enjoy your beer safely and responsibly during

lockdown

12 Heineken lends a hand 14 Men, stand up against gender-based violence now

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RETAIL SEGMENT INDUSTRY NEWS 16 Hot Off the Press 18 The Tavern Tatler

NEW PRODUCT REVIEWS 20 New on the shelf

Find us on: facebook.com/ SpotongMagazine

24 Essential retail stock 26

Twitter @SpotongMagazine

LIQUOR SEGMENT 26 New online drinks-ordering platform launches

for taverns

27 Essential Liquor Stock 28 Brand new beverages EDITOR

CEO & DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Charlene Heyburgh

Sean Press

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REPRO & PRINTING

Margot Bertelsmann

MANAGING DIRECTOR AND PUBLISHER

CONTACT

Donna Verrydt

info@spotongmag.co.za

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34 Cocktails: Shake up your lockdown with

Lesley Fox Candy Mukwa Quincy Matonhodze Eleen Du Buisson

HOSPITALITY 32 Recipes: Lockdown meals for sharing with the family

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38 Small businesses grow into medium-sized ones –

Copyright © 2020 Contact Media & Communications. Spotong is published by Contact Media & Communications. All material is strictly copyright with all rights reserved. No material may be reproduced in part or whole without the express written permission of the publisher. No responsibility will be accepted for unsolicited material. The publisher accepts no liability of whatsoever nature arising out of or in connection with the contents of this publication. Whilst every care has been taken in compiling this publication, the publisher does not give any warranty as to the completeness or accuracy of its contents. The views and opinions expressed in Spotong are not necessarily those of the Publisher or contributors.

Soweto residents and beyond

40 Expand your township business 42 Surface safety to stop the spread of COVID-19 44 Funding and support for your SME

COLUMNS: NTHA

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He led many in their heroic struggles. Speaking about him is indeed confirmation of difficult facts to comprehend, the reality that he is no more. and building a movement of partnership between other formations such as SALTA and NTHA and by extension, serving the downtrodden members of the liquor industry.

Members of SALTHA, I attest on their behalf, believed that he was indeed a giant among us.

He led many in their heroic struggles. Speaking about him is indeed confirmation of difficult facts to comprehend, the reality that he is no more.

President, we want to thank you for being who you were to all of us. It is no exaggeration when we say President, commonly known as Bra Churchill, was full of life, love and energy which was written all over his smile. If you were lucky enough to have a conversation with him, it would always be about those less fortunate than himself.

The importance of self-preservation Covid-19, in more ways than one, has exposed the extent to which the country remains divided between the haves and have-nots.

While these remain fundamental challenges, we must soldier on to repair these challenges, especially in the liquor industry, which Bra Churchill spent all of his time fighting for. This brings to light the importance of self-preservation among us who remain as well as the challenges of transformation in the liquor industry and tourism across the value chain, which is why SALTHA, NTHA and SALTA must continue with the struggle for which Bra Churchill sacrificed his time.

NTHA MOURNS THE PASSING OF SALTHA PRESIDENT CHURCHILL MRASI

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he National Tourism and Hospitality Association mourns the untimely passing of president of SALTHA (the South African Leisure Tourism and Hospitality Association), former deputy president of NAFCOC (National African Federated Chamber of Commerce and Industry) and fellow member of the Gauteng Liquor Forum, Mr Churchill Mrasi.

To the liquor industry and business formations on which he served, his passing has left a massive void and big shoes to fill.

He was part of a family that spread beyond the biological lineage and neighbours of Orlando East, Soweto. He dedicated his entire life to serving

We say that Bra Churchill was made of steel because he had little to no tolerance for indecisiveness and if decisions were to be taken, he could as the President be accused of being a dictator. It is this kind of action-orientated leadership that is lacking today and that part of him made us appreciate his leadership and guidance.

It is for this reason and many others that we say, President, we shall forever cherish having shared some time and space with you. We have learned so much and shall continue to strive to build a strong movement among the liquor traders and other business formations you led to pursue transformation.

Enkosi Phumzile Ratladi, NTHA Secretary

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COLUMNS: GLF

LIQUOR TRADERS SUFFER DURING COVID-19 LOCKDOWN

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ownship liquor traders have endured financial strain as a result of being discriminated against by all government agencies that excluded them from economic relief. The grant eligibility criteria for the Department of Trade and Industry excludes liquor companies and liquor traders.

www.spotongmag.co.za

promised to assist where possible. GLF then wrote a letter requesting a meeting with the state attorney.

GLF received confirmation to meet with government on the way forward with the liquor industry. We are still awaiting that meeting as I write this column!

The government announced Covid-19 alert levels, from level 5 to level 1. Level 3 to level 1 alcohol sales were allowed with restrictions, and only retail stores would be allowed to trade, but not taverns and shebeens.

What made matters worse is that illicit trade has taken hold since the implementation of the lockdown, fuelling criminal activities in our communities. The Gauteng Liquor Forum (GLF) contemplated court action to force government to lift the ban or relax the lockdown regulations. This was necessary because liquor traders do not qualify for state relief funds.

The liquor manufacturing companies did not support GLF in their fight against unjust regulations pre-lockdown and during the lockdown, but instead, used the exclusion of taverns and shebeens to manipulate liquor associations to join them in the fight for the main market to be included to trade during alert level 3.

This gave birth to the Consortium of Liquor Trade Associations, which was lead by SALBA, BASA and VINPRO.

The state attorney, acting for the president, replied to the GLF’s initial letter of demand by saying the sale of alcohol is not an essential service. He said the president said consumption of liquor has proven to increase crimes that put people in hospitals, and the country could not afford to have its emergency rooms full as it deals with Covid-19 cases.

Our fight against the government was only supported by Winston Hector through correspondence. He is the president of the Eastern Cape Liquor Forum. We have worked with him in the fight for transformation in the liquor industry.

The president announced various support schemes, and the state attorney said our members may seek to access these benefits and

The Consortium of Liquor Trade Associations organised a conference that

was sponsored by Distell in Sandton.

A task team was nominated in that conference to prepare for an elective conference in February next year.

Those who were nominated were Winston Hector from the Eastern Cape Liquor Forum, Khulu Radebe from the Free State Association, Richard Kabini from Mpumalanga, Mxolisi Duma from SALTA Gauteng, Fanny Mokoena from NTHA Gauteng, David Leeu from Hammanskraal, Richard Zulu from SALTHA Gauteng and myself, Musa Ntshangase, from GLF Gauteng.

The purpose of the task team is to organise a successful, truly representative elective conference that is inclusive of all structures, whether national, provincial, regional or local, and to engage with industry stakeholders and government on behalf of participant structures. The industry has since been confronted by a temporary suspension on liquor sales as a result of irresponsible alcohol consumption that led to the shortage of hospital beds because of people admitted to hospitals with injuries sustained in violent crimes and accidents.

The Gauteng Liquor Forum wishes to convey condolences to all those who have lost their loved ones during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Musa Ntshangase, Gauteng Liquor Forum General Secretary

COLUMNS: SALTA

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A FOND FAREWELL TO

ALEX LEADER, BRA MISH A

lexandra township bid farewell to a true servant of the people in June.

This is how the community of the sprawling kasi north of Johannesburg described the late Mshengu Mishack Hlophe. “Bra Mish”, as Hlophe was affectionately known, was buried at Waterval Cemetery on 3 June 2020.

He passed away on 29 May after battling illness. He was 56.

Hlophe held many titles during his lifetime. He was the president of the SA Liquor Traders Association (SALTA), a board member at Alex FM, in addition to being a steward at the Methodist Church of Africa.

He was also actively involved in politics as a staunch member of the Economic Freedom Fighters.

All these organisations described him as a selfless person.

“Our shebeens and taverns were recognised as business entities because of the work done by Ntate Hlophe and the leadership of SALTA. They really fought for our establishments to be recognised by the government,” said Mary Msibi of Mary’s Inn in Alexandra. “We lost a selfless man who also taught us about responsible trading and educating our customers about responsible drinking. We’ll miss Bra Mish dearly. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

Msibi also took the opportunity to pay tribute to the work that SALTA has done during the lockdown.

Hlophe advocated for legal trading and responsible drinking, while successfully convincing the government to grant shebeens operating permits.

Ironically, his passing coincided with the

(temporary) lifting of the ban on alcohol sales under lockdown by the government.

SALTA provincial executive committee member and local chairperson, Martin Hlongwa, said that although Bra Mish left “big shoes to fill” he still left behind a legacy within the association.

“He came through the ranks at SALTA. He was always pushing us in our fight for the rights of liquor traders. With his passing, it’s like he is saying, ‘I’ve done my job’ just after he had reached the zenith,” said Hlongwa.

Hlophe also played an active role in politics, first in the ANC structures before he joined the EFF in 2013. He was the EFF’s branch secretary and chairperson before the party nominated him as its councillor candidate during the 2016 municipal elections.

The Rasibe Langa EFF branch in Alexandra said, “Fighter Mish will be most remembered for his generosity. He always ensured no fighter goes hungry around him. He had a good sense of humour and a love for children. Fighter Mish kept to the real ethos of the struggle for the true emancipation of black people and he knew that there is no true freedom without economic freedom.”

Apart from his involvement across various sectors, Hlophe also encouraged the importance of education. He held a BCom Admin degree from Unisa.

Hlope, also nicknamed Lefty, left behind a big family. He is survived by his wife Shirley Hlophe (née Mothowagae), four brothers, seven sisters, three sons, a daughter and 10 grandchildren.

Go well, Mabhengu!

Mary Msibi, SALTA

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MAIN FEATURE

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MEET THE WOMEN WHOSE 60 000 CLOTH MASKS MAKE TAVERNS SAFER SAB empowers female-owned SMEs to make an impact during the Covid-19 pandemic

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ith the economy of the country slowly reopening, most businesses are once again able to trade and generate a level of income to support their livelihoods. While this is a welcome reprieve for our country, the effects of the beginning stages of hard lockdown can still be felt. Businesses were forced to cease operations at very short notice, limiting and in some instances completely cutting off cash flow.

As small businesses faced a grim and uncertain future, imagine how many entrepreneurs could become despondent in the face of such adversity.

But it is no secret that “South African” is almost synonymous with the word “resilient”.

Our nation continuously and consistently rises above difficult situations, creating hope in the direst of situations.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, the business owners of our nation heeded the call, demonstrating South African resilience once again.

At a time when “business as usual” operations were ground to a halt, we saw many South African businesses totally pivot their line of work to an essential service. These small businesses seized the opportunity, not only to put food on their table, but to provide a service that the country, and its businesses, are in desperate need of.

An outstanding example of adaptability can be showcased by seven heroic ladies who ensured that their businesses not only survived the Covid-19 pandemic but made an impact while doing so.

These ladies were all participants of a South African Breweries programme, the SAB Foundation, which invests in entrepreneurs, specifically women and youth, people in rural areas and people with disabilities. These ladies also show us a prime example of the fact that the relationship between big businesses and small businesses are symbiotic in an inspiring initiative undertaken by the South African Breweries (SAB).

MAIN FEATURE

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Florence Parnell - PineApple Creations

Once it was confirmed that alcohol trade can resume in lockdown level 3, SAB prioritised the safe and responsible reopening of trade. To this end, one of the initiatives undertaken by the business was to distribute safety kits to taverns nationwide.

These kits intend to curb contamination and include five cloth masks, four informational posters, two litres of sanitiser, two litres of disinfectant and three education manuals.

While the distribution of the kits is a fantastic gesture of corporate citizenship and partnership with our government, SAB did not stop there.

SAB went a step further, approaching the alumni of SAB Foundation and offering them an opportunity to manufacture the cloth masks, which are a part of the safety kits. This opportunity came as a beacon of hope for these women, whose business operation had been abruptly halted.

As it was so aptly put by Zoleka Lisa, SAB’s vicepresident of corporate affairs: “At a time where so many South African businesses need all the support they can get, we needed to make sure our impact was maximised. We knew we needed entrepreneurs, as they are critical to reigniting our economy, while helping our tavern owners get ready to trade safely. Through the help of these extraordinary female entrepreneurs we were able to do just that. We all have to do what we can to empower those around us at every turn as these times are difficult for all of us.”

These women accepted the challenge, pivoting their usual business operations in favour of manufacturing cloth masks for the good of their fellow South Africans, their livelihoods, and their country’s economy.

We salute all small business owners who have shown resilience and determination in these uncertain times.

The heroines below enabled SAB to create and distribute 60 000 cloth masks, enabling the safe reopening of trade!

PineApple Creations provides quality and affordable school-wear, industrial uniforms and protective wear. Florence ensures that schoolchildren and workers in Helderberg have access to affordable and good quality uniforms.

The next step for Florence is to open a boutique in Villiersdorp and Grabouw.

Constance Dlamini - Phutuma Multi Purpose Phutuma Multi Purpose manufactures clothes and products for infants, children and ladies. Constance began her business with the vision of being independent and using her skills to empower her community.

Caroline van Rooi - Red Pilot Red Pilot is a clothing manufacturing company.

It produces a range of garments such as sporting and outdoor apparel, swimwear for the fuller figure, and a line of baby clothing.Caroline became disabled eight years ago, meaning she could no longer work for her employer. Despite this, Caroline took control of her situation, using her skills to start her own business.

Hlengiwe Zulu Mtofo Trading Mtofo Trading Enterprise specialises in the manufacture of uniforms and other essentials for workers and schoolgoing children.Hlengiwe prioritises contributing positively to the community through her commitment to using local SMMEs for large orders.

Lesego Moloka - Pone Creatives Pone Creatives is a home furnishing textile design house that offers luxurious, woven fabrics in unique designs. Lesego is the creative engineer behind Pone designs. Lesego uses original weaving techniques in her designs, making them stand out in your home!

Samukelisiwe Khanyile Qhawekazi Styles Qhawekazi Styles Collection crafts timeless Africaninspired couture for everyday and formal wear.

Initially, Samukelisiwe focused on sourcing and selling dresses. However, in October 2017 Qhawekazi identified a niche in the market and started sourcing materials for the production of kimonos, scarves and dresses.

Kuvonakala Mavunda Sizanimavoko Enterprise Sizanimavoko Enterprise is a uniform-sewing business designing uniforms based on their clients’ needs.

Sizanimavoko was initiated

by Kuvonakala’s mother.

Kuvonakala Mavunda is following in her mother’s footsteps to continue her legacy

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TOWNSHIP ECONOMY

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R1-BILLION INJECTED INTO TOWNSHIP AND RURAL ECONOMY Black Business Council and Ubank Limited partner to establish a new fund

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he Black Business Council (BBC) and Ubank Limited signed a historic partnership agreement in May 2020 to establish a R1-billion fund for township and rural economy revitalisation. The fund will be made available to BBC members and other SMMEs to the value of R250-million per annum over the period of five years, targeted at supporting township and rural black business ventures, entrepreneurship, and start-up companies.

The fund will focus on information technology and digitalisation, manufacturing, agriculture and agri-processing, retail, infrastructure and tourism.

The main objective of the partnership between BBC and Ubank will be to develop township and rural market solutions and black companies, support the development of black industrialists, enable economic transformation and be a catalyst for change and inclusive growth.

The fund will be managed through a joint Ubank/BBC steering committee that will ensure that the fund achieves its intended purpose, which is to support township and rural economies in line with the mandate of the government’s township and rural entrepreneurship programme (TREP) and fund.

Tilson Manyoni, head of policy at BBC, says: “This partnership is a major milestone for BBC as it repositions BBC as a policy advocacy organisation and an implementing partner. It will ensure that our country is transformed, develop the township and rural economy as well as build a new cohort of black industrialists and black businesses. We are now bringing policy advocacy to implementation.”

Ubank CEO Luthando Vutula says: “I fully agree with my colleague Tilson; this is indeed a major milestone, and one that resonates well with the bank.

As the worker’s bank of choice, driven by our commitment to serve and empower our communities, I believe this partnership could not have come at a better time. The R1-billion Township and Rural Economy Fund will offer immense opportunities to small businesses, especially black businesses, which contribute positively towards townships. It will furthermore enable the

township businesses to become active participants in our overall economy, and have some resources to give them the prospect of success.”

The partnership puts BBC and Ubank at the centre of our country’s economic re-industrialisation and also as a strategic partner for township and rural economy revitalisation. This is in line with government’s mandate to ensure total economic inclusivity as we usher in a new decade.

About the Black Business Council The Black Business Council (BBC) is the over-arching confederation that represents black professional, business associations and chambers. The primary purpose of the BBC is to lobby government on policy-related matters and to play an advocacy role where policies are in place to accelerate the participation of black business in the mainstream economy. For more information about BBC, visit our website www.blackbusinesscouncil.africa

About Ubank Ubank is a well-established financial services provider entrenched primarily within the gold and platinum mining communities. Its mandate to service the broader working market in South Africa has become imperative in order to extend affordable financial services and to provide the workers with a bank that they trust.

For more information about Ubank, visit our website www.ubank.co.za or follow us on Facebook and Twitter @UbankSA.

RESPONSIBLE DRINKING

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ENJOY YOUR BEER SAFELY

AND RESPONSIBLY DURING LOCKDOWN Follow these 7 important tips

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outh Africa has been on lockdown for many weeks now, with the sale of alcohol banned during most of this time. While the government has once again lifted the alcohol ban, we need to ensure that we continue to combat the spread of the pandemic and responsible trade and consumption are key elements in this plan.

Below are seven important tips to follow to trade, buy and drink responsibly.

1.

Buy only what you need

Plan your trips to the stores well in advance, and don’t over-buy. It is absolutely critical that shoppers buy responsibly, calmly and in moderation.

2. Avoid crowds Where possible, please purchase beer on available online platforms to ensure that you remain safe at home while your beer gets delivered to you. As the saying goes, “There’s an app for that.” Online platforms ensure that you avoid waiting in long queues and assist with curbing the spread of the Covid-19 virus through contactless shopping.

3. Drink in moderation Although beer is a drink of moderation with a lower ABV, it should always be consumed in moderation. Consumers must drink responsibly and within reason, in the safety of their homes.

Keeping a clear head will mean that we all stay safe and act smartly, and won’t put ourselves or those around us at risk.

4. Line your stomach – enjoy a meal before a beer Drinking on an empty stomach is a universally bad idea. To moderate your blood alcohol level, have a meal with your alcoholic drinks or eat foods high in protein like meat and cheese before drinking.

You’ll enjoy your beer more with a little food in your stomach!

5. Pace yourself – alternate beers with non-alcoholic drinks or water ‘Pacing’ refers to alternating between alcohol and non-alcohol drinks, to ensure you have a lower intake of alcohol over longer periods.

By drinking non-alcoholic drinks, such as water and cold drinks, between drinks, you will not only reduce the effects of alcohol but will be able to enjoy your favourite beer for a longer period. Try some non-alcoholic beers such as Castle Free or Becks Blue while you are pacing yourself.

6. Consume at home Licensed liquor outlets are allowed to sell alcohol during certain times of the week, provided Covid-19 safety protocol is strictly adhered to and that alcohol is not consumed on-site (at the store).

A special dispensation has been granted to taverns to operate strictly as off-consumption outlets. So please do purchase your long-awaited beer – but drink it at home.

‘Pacing’ refers to alternating between alcohol and non-alcohol drinks, to ensure you have a lower intake of alcohol over longer periods.

7. Don’t share drinks and sanitise!

Sharing is caring but not during a pandemic!

Please do not share glasses, bottles or cans between yourself and others – this is one of the easiest ways the disease can spread. Remember to wash your hands regularly (for at least 20 seconds) and sanitise the outside of your bottle or cans before drinking from it.

“We all need to do our part and be #ResponsibleTogether, this means that retailers and traders need to abide by the law, and sell alcohol to persons over the age of 18, implement the Covid-19 safety protocols – such as ensuring that shoppers have masks on and practise social distancing,” says Zoleka Lisa, vice-president of corporate affairs at South African Breweries.

“Customers have an equally important role to play, so please make sure that you drink in the safety of your own home and not on the streets or at a friend’s house.

Remember that it is not safe to socialise just yet, and in doing so, you’d be putting yourself and others at risk. Together we can support government efforts to flattening the curve by adhering to the Covid-19 rules and regulations,” concluded Lisa.

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CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

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HEINEKEN

LENDS A HAND The beer brand is assisting staff and supporting frontline healthcare heroes and communities impacted by Covid-19

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eineken South Africa strongly believes in expressing its global ethos of "Brewing a Better World" this in its actions. Through two recent significant donations, the brewer is fulfilling two key Heineken pillars - promoting health and safety, and growing with and supporting communities in the areas in which the business operates. As a responsible business, Heineken South Africa strives to assist those most impacted by the pandemic and the healthcare workers keeping us protected from its spread and effect.

Earlier in the year, Heineken South Africa heeded the call from the South African government for support by donating personal protective equipment (PPEs) worth R1-million to help our healthcare heroes and the workers on the frontlines of the Covid-19 battle.

The local brewer handed over PPEs to the provincial department of health, which will be utilised by nurses and doctors in the Covid-19 wards of Gauteng

public hospitals, providing them with protection while they work to curb the spread of the disease across the province. Besides the protective equipment, which included masks and medical-grade disinfectant, Heineken also provided supplies and refreshments for hospital kitchens including tea, coffee, rusks and energy bars to sustain the hospital staff on duty.

Along with support for those working during this time, Heineken also provided help to those who cannot work during the pandemic. Heineken handed over care and food hampers across various regions valued at more than R100 000.

These hampers included 111 hampers to the Midvaal local municipality as well as two Gauteng-based non-governmental organisations (NGOs), namely Lethabo Feeding Scheme based in Orlando East, and Reabetswe Community Care Service based in Alexandra. An orphanage in Roodepoort, Dorah’s Ark, also benefitted from these care packages. These packs contain essential food rations and hygiene products and are being distributed to the most vulnerable people across Gauteng.

Issue 34

Globally, Heineken has donated €15-million to support the Red Cross and relief efforts for the most vulnerable people affected by Covid-19, in particular in Africa, Asia and Latin America.

Extending care to the larger Heineken family Heineken South Africa has now also extended Covid-19-related support to the families of more than 950 staff members as Covid-19 infections peak in the country.

The brewer is providing family care packs that include face masks, sanitisers and educational material in an effort to help its employees and their families better protect themselves during the pandemic. Employees can choose to have the family care pack delivered to their door (to limit movement) or collect it at work in a safe and contactless manner.

Like many companies, and as is the trend in the country, Heineken SA expects to see an increase in Covid-19 infections within its employee population and has taken measures to slow down the spread of the virus as far as possible. This includes expanding its work from home policy to more employees, providing personal protective equipment (each staff member has received four face masks, with those working in the field receiving sanitiser), and ensuring that all safety protocols are observed in the workplace, including sanitising the work space at least three times daily and effecting social distancing.

The company has also been using in-house channels to provide education on Covid-19-related topics led by its company doctor and experts.

Among other, these videos focus on how to keep your home Covid-19 safe, what to do when you test positive, how to manage your symptoms during a recovery period, and how to care for a loved one who tested positive.

The beer & cider manufacturer has also prioritised mental wellbeing during this time, recognising that employees are faced with a number of challenges such as juggling work and domestic responsibilities, coping with reduced income and the threat to their physical health. Employees have access to online mental health services, including counselling.

Yvonne Mosadi, human resources director at Heineken South Africa, explains the need for this extended support: “Throughout this pandemic, the health and safety of our people has remained our top priority. One of our organisational behaviour values is ‘safety first, safety always’, and it is central in everything we do. We have responded to the crisis by ensuring that our colleagues are regularly informed about the latest coronavirus developments and safety measures, while complying with and implementing preventative measures in the work environment. We realise that our employees are not the only ones that could benefit from our support, but that we could augment our interventions and extended assistance to their families too. In this way, we can strengthen our efforts to decelerate the spread of the virus.”

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

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MEN, STAND UP AGAINST

GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE NOW

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n a recent speech, President Cyril Ramaphosa made a very bold statement. He said, “South African men have declared war on women during the Covid-19 period.”

His statement was spot-on as the stats that were being reported were horrifying. The national government’s gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide command centre recorded that more than 120 000 victims called the national helpline for abused women and children in the first three weeks after the lockdown started - double the usual volume of calls.

Gender-based violence increased 500% since the start of the lockdown. The lockdown provided a” perfect storm” for a GBV crisis, not only in South Africa but also in the rest of the world.

Approximately 90 countries were in lockdown and four billion people were sheltering at home from due to the pandemic.

The confinement exacerbates the tension and strain created by security, health and money worries. It is increasing isolation for women with violent partners, separating them from the people and resources that can best help them. It’s a perfect storm for controlling, violent behaviour behind closed doors. As health systems are stretched to breaking point, domestic violence shelters are also reaching maximum capacity, made worse when centres are repurposed for additional Covid-19 response.

Women forced to adapt their lifestyles Before the pandemic, women said they found everyday activities such as walking in the street, going to gym or using public transport to be an anxious exercise due to the rise in gender-based violence.

According to the latest statistics verified by Africa Check, South Africa’s femicide rate is five times the global average – with a woman being murdered every three hours in South Africa. This contradicts what South Africa stands for, a nation of “Ubuntu.”

Sivuyisiwe Wonci, a researcher at the Institute for Gender Studies at the University of South Africa, said gender-based violence takes away from women’s confidence, freedom of movement and opportunities.

GBV is a public health issue in South Africa and contributes to high rates of mortality and morbidity among women. It puts women at risk of lifethreatening physical, emotional, and psychological illness. It threatens women’s dignity, safety and security both in public and private spaces.

The cost of GBV to the economy Using a conservative estimate, gender-based violence costs South Africa between R28.4-billion and R42.4-billion per year – or between 0.9% and 1.3% of GDP annually. It prevents the economy from attaining its full potential and this effect will be seen in several generations.

Support for survivors While South Africa is a signatory to a number of international treaties on GBV, and has a strong legislative framework, for example, the Domestic Violence Act (DVA) (1998), the Sexual Offences Act (2007) and the Prevention and Combatting of Trafficking in Human Persons (2013) Act, these Acts don’t seem to be enough to combat the scourge. This has led to South Africans standing together to play their part to make a difference by fighting for women rights to living safely. One such organisation is a group of women from Gauteng’s Tembisa township that formed #OurLivesMatter.

Marcia Semelane, the chair of the organisation, says it takes months for rape and gender-based violence victims to receive counselling. It makes them feel neglected and causes them to blame themselves for the crimes committed against them.

There is also a lack of support for victims when they need to appear in court. It is often daunting and leaves victims exhausted by how long it takes to get the suspects convicted.

Women find it difficult to find relevant information to open cases and the information is not easily accessible. Women are sent from pillar to post when wanting to report crimes – and end up feeling judged by the very person appointed to assist them.

In some instances, victims are not supported by the investigating officers and the community, so they tend to stop going to court and cases fall through the cracks. #OurLivesMatter has partnered with other community organisations to ensure that abused women and children receive efficient support.

They work closely with the Vukamusha Foundation and Bombani Shelter in Alexandra and are constantly making new contacts to learn from other organisations.

Brand South Africa, the official marketing agency of the country, has for many years recognised the massive need to help GBV victims and has been advocating for members of the community to play their part in providing solutions. It launched the Play Your Part programme in 2013, aimed at all South Africans – from corporates to individuals, NGOs to government, churches to schools, young to not-soyoung, with the objective to inspire, empower and celebrate active citizenship in South Africa.

It aimed to lift the spirit of our nation by inspiring all South Africans to contribute to positive change, become involved and start doing - because a nation of people who care deeply for one another and the environment in which they live is good for everyone.

During the Covid-19 lockdown, Brand South Africa created the Play Your Part Virtual Series. It aims to inspire and ignite South Africans to take action and make a difference in their communities despite the pandemic. In one of the episode the organisation collaborated with the TEARS Foundation to encourage women to speak up and contact TEARS for assistance. Brand South Africa also collaborated with Growing Up Without a Father Foundation to provide a support structure to men who are battling with issues of abuse.

“Gender-based violence needs to be addressed from a relational and societal perspective if South Africa hopes to find a solution. The women of South Africa have for years been given advice on how to avoid gender-based violence, but at Brand South Africa we believe that men now need to be encouraged to take a greater stand and play their part in providing solutions,” said Sithembile Ntombela, the general manager for marketing at Brand South Africa.

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News that informs and inspires in the retail industry

Shoprite offers contactless QR payments

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he Shoprite Group’s customers can now pay for groceries with their phones as the retailer continues to find new ways to keep its stores, customers and employees safe during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Making QR payments available in stores and on its websites is also in line with the Group’s strategic focus on developing future-fit channels as it continues to roll out new innovations.

It is the first South African food retailer to offer dynamic QR payments which will be available at the tills in all Shoprite, Usave, Checkers and Checkers Hyper stores within the next two months.

Customers simply have to scan the QR code at the till point with their phones and pay with Masterpass, SnapScan, Zapper, FNB Pay or Nedbank Pay in any of the Group’s stores.

Jean Olivier, the general manager for financial services for the Shoprite Group, says, “As retailers, we must meet the challenge of the new shopping environment to deliver outstanding product research and buying experiences. Rolling this payment method out enhances our customers’ shopping experience with more options and greater convenience.”

As the retailer uses a dynamic QR code, the amount payable will automatically display on the customer’s phone, leaving little room for error.

This development, in line with the Group’s strategic commitment to put its customers first and make shopping more convenient for them, allows customers to shop even if they forgot their wallet at home or would prefer not to carry cash or touch the pin pad.

The QR code was built on the EMVCo standard with the help of Mastercard and one of the Group’s technology partners, Electrum.

It is currently available in 29 Checkers stores and will be rolled out to all stores across South Africa within the next two months. The rest of the continent will follow as soon as possible.

Coca-Cola launches Ikageng Employee Share Trust

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oca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA) has launched its landmark Ikageng Employee Share Trust that will offer its employees shares and direct economic participation in the business.

Ikageng will benefit nearly 8 000 South African-based employees at CCBSA, Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) and Appletiser. Every employee will receive an equal allocation of shares through the established Ikageng Trust regardless of staff level, race or years of service.

“We remain committed to the ideal of transformation and B-BBEE, and this investment is driven by the recognition that employees are our biggest asset, as they enable innovation,

growth and the sustainable development of our company,” says Velaphi Ratshefola, managing director of CCBSA. “As part of our mission to create shared opportunity and value throughout our business, we want employees to have a vested interest in delivering an enhanced value while influencing and directly participating in the company’s long-term vision of sustained profitability.”

Ikageng means “let us build ourselves”, a Setswana name chosen by one of the employees. It is a name that was generated internally through a staff campaign, which reaffirms that employees own more than just a share, but the spirit and identity of the company they work for.

“Since inception in May 2016, CCBSA took a bold step to contribute meaningfully to the country’s ideal to be an inclusive and transformed organisation. We committed ourselves to becoming a level 2 contributor by 2021 and set off on our journey to achieve this,” Ratshefola continues.

The Ikageng Trust holds a shareholding in CocaCola Fortune, which in turn owns 100% of CCBSA. The equity ownership is substantially higher than the 3% required by the B-BBEE Codes.

The Trust is fully funded through notional vendor funding (NVF), with a portion of the dividends reducing the NVF and a portion paid to beneficiaries. This allows for the NVF amount to be settled and the transfer of a higher net value

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Yoco launches online payment solutions to support small business through the pandemic

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oco, a financial platform for small business, announced that it has launched a suite of online payment solutions for merchants to sustain their cash flow during and beyond lockdown. Known for in-person payments, enabling online payments marks a step-change for the company and its customers.

“Yoco’s mission has always centred around helping small businesses thrive and supporting them is more important now than ever before. The national lockdown has had a severe impact on our merchants. Through our platform and the results of a recent merchant survey, we have seen up to a 90% decrease in in-person transactions since the lockdown began. We knew that the best way to support our merchants was to develop products that would enable them to do business online and keep money coming in through this period,” says co-founder and CEO Katlego Maphai.

The Yoco team has developed three new payment solutions: Payment Page, Gift Vouchers, and Payment Request. All three are purpose-built for small businesses to do business online in different ways, simply and securely.

The announcement comes on the back of another Yoco milestone: reaching a customer base of 80 000 small businesses. “Our growing volume of merchants puts into perspective the number of people who rely on us to help them do business,” commented Lungisa Matshoba, co-founder and CTO. “This inspired the team to drive our online payments project forward.

We have been developing these solutions for a few months; however, with the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown, we knew that we needed to get them into our merchants’ hands as quickly as possible.”

“It is clear from the latest briefing by Health Minister Zweli Mkhize and Dr Salim Abdool

to beneficiaries in the long-term while allowing beneficiaries to also receive benefits from the outset.

Ikageng beneficiaries receive dividends from day one. Employees will never be required to outlay any cash of their own at any time. In this way, CCBSA can provide its employees access to equity participation that encourages a mutual objective of ensuring the long-term success for both the company and its employees.

The drafting of the Trust documents, which govern the activities of the Trust, was a consultative process, involving unions, the company and regulators. The board of eight trustees is made up of four beneficiary-appointed trustees, three

company-appointed trustees and an independent trustee. As such, the Trust has been formed with robust mechanisms to ensure that beneficiary interests are put above all other considerations.

“Our transformation strategy includes bold initiatives in supplier inclusion and transformation and increasing our black ownership level,” adds Ratshefola. “It is in this spirit that we have established The Ikageng Employee Share Trust to extend the ownership opportunity to our employees. We have always maintained that we see the merger conditions set out by the competition authorities as an opportunity to impact our society meaningfully and we have always embraced and aimed at not only meeting them but exceeding them. I am humbled and proud

Karim that both business and life have been fundamentally altered, and that social distancing is here to stay for some time to come. Therefore, Covid-19 has made contactless and online payments a priority for all of our merchants, no matter which industry they find themselves in. Supporting merchants through this process of adaptation and innovation is a part of our mission,” concluded Maphai.

The Yoco online payment suite enables merchants to securely accept online payments, as well as easily track and reconcile all invoices and payments whether in-person or online.

Each solution is designed with specific use cases in mind.

Payment Page enables merchants to receive card payments through a personalized online page, removing the friction of EFTs and creating a seamless experience for customers. Gift Vouchers allow customers to support their local small businesses cash flow needs now and redeem the vouchers for products or services once the lockdown is lifted. Lastly, Payment Request gives merchants who are still trading the ability to request and accept online card payments for sales, conveniently tracked within their sales history. The Online Payment suite is available on the Yoco app from now to all Yoco customers.

To further support small businesses, Yoco is also launching a small business directory at www. supportsmall.co.za. Owners are encouraged to register on the directory to make their businesses discoverable by consumers across South Africa.

of what we have been able to achieve on our transformation journey so far, and Ikageng is certainly the highlight for us.”

Reach out to Kweza on: +27676842056, Whatsapp +27681266721, email hello@ kweza.co.za, or download the app “HelloKwezaApp”.

Follow them on Facebook @kwezatech or LinkedIn Kweza Technologies.

LIQUOR E H T R O F S W E N

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ATAD O N

R E V E T S A’S FIR S , I T S R I F G N I C UTION L O INTRODU S T C E L L O C -AND K C I L C D E R I U Q RE connection

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SAB IS 100% BEHIND THE IMPLEMENTATION OF 0% BREATH ALCOHOL CONTENT LIMIT

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ith the country having moved to level 3 of lockdown and eased regulations coming into effect, there is a visible increase in the number of road users once again. This has made the National Road Traffic Amendment Bill of 2019 is more important than ever before. The Bill, which was submitted by government to Parliament at the beginning of this year, will completely prohibit the consumption of alcohol if driving. South African Breweries welcomes this necessary move.

“As a mother of three, the safety of my family on the road is always a major concern,” said Zoleka Lisa, vice-president of corporate affairs at SAB. “SAB, as one of the largest players in the alcohol industry, are 100% in support of Minister of Transport Fikile Mbalula’s commitment to implement a breath alcohol content (BAC) 0% zero-tolerance policy by June 2020.”

In a partnership with the Department of Transport and the Road Traffic Management Corporation, SAB’s Alcohol Evidence Centres (AECs) have been central to the implementation of the proposed BAC 0% bill and they set to reinforce the sentiment that individuals must not even have a single drink if they intend getting behind the wheel of a vehicle. “The AECs are SAB’s best effort to help equip law enforcement with the tools and support they need to effectively curb road accidents,” said Lisa.

“SAB, as one of the largest players in the alcohol industry, are 100% in support of Minister of Transport Fikile Mbalula’s commitment to implement a breath alcohol content (BAC) 0% zero-tolerance policy by June 2020.”

Zoleka Lisa, vice-president of corporate affairs at SAB AECs ensure that law enforcement is able to test suspected drunk drivers and confirm their breath or blood alcohol limit using evidentiary breathalyser alcohol testing (EBAT) and blood tests done by registered medical practitioners. They also ensure that the evidence collected during these processes are admissible in court.

At the beginning of 2019, SAB matched its verbal commitment to reducing road fatalities by contributing on average R10-million to maintaining and upgrading AECs across the country over a threeyear period.

Now that the Covid-19 pandemic has become a reality across the country, the use of breathalysers and blood tests in the fight against drunk driving is in question. Prior to the lockdown, the South African Police Services had already suspended the use of breathalysers during alcohol roadblocks. SAB already is in talks with its partners to ensure that the Covid-19 pandemic does not create a gap in the system that puts lives at risk.

“Due to the nature of viral transmission, the use of breathalysers and blood tests has been put into question and more stringent regulations will be put in place. As our partners at the Road Traffic Management Corporation and local authorities update procedures surrounding BAC testing in line with developing Department of Health regulations, we will continue to work with them to ensure our AECs remain operational during these unprecedented times,” said Lisa.

As a testament to AEC effectiveness, SAB launched the Pietermaritzburg AEC in April last year, and subsequently witnessed a 44% reduction in road fatalities in the area by November. In the five months between March and July last year, there were also more than 420 arrests in the area related to drinking and driving. More importantly, there were 70 successful prosecutions.

Lisa said: “SAB is fully committed to curbing the threat of drunk drivers on the road and does not want AEC momentum to fade, even with Covid-19 on the rise across the country. Working with our partners is going to be key to this as new developments continue to arise. The suspension of breathalysers should never be a reason to drink and drive. We will keep up the pressure, and do it within the boundaries of the law.”

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NEW RETAIL PRODUCTS

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NEW ON THE SHELF

NEW CREMORA LIQUID CREAMER Cremora has launched a brand-new liquid creamer that comes in two flavours: Hazelnut and Vanilla. It packs a sugary punch but will leave your hot beverages creamier than ever. Nestle Cremora liquid creamer comes in 250ml packs, offering 12 x 20ml servings and is available at major supermarkets.

For more information visit www.nestle-esar.com

TIC TAC UNVEILS LIMITED EDITION COCA-COLA FLAVOUR Ferrero is rolling out a Coca-Cola flavoured variant of its Tic Tac confectionery brand.

Following a collaboration between the two brands, the Tic Tac Coca-Cola special edition will be available in more than 70 countries around the world. With Tic Tac Coca-Cola, consumers will enjoy an incomparable taste experience which combines the refreshment of Coca-Cola with the iconicity of Tic Tac. Both brands are appreciated all over the world, perfect for sharing, connecting people, providing refreshment.

Tic Tac Coca-Cola is available in three different promotional packs, in terms of size and weight, with a distinctive and impactful graphic, enhancing the strength of this collaboration.

The formats will be available worldwide in the iconic Tic Tac boxes, perfect on the go or for sharing with friends.

For more information visit www.tictac.com

FAIR CAPE DAIRIES LAUNCHES LONG-LIFE FRUIT JUICE Fair Cape Dairies’ popular fruit juices are now available in long-life packaging. Like their fresh counterparts, the long-life juices are made from 100% juice and are preservative-free with no added sugar. The one-litre packs are available in 100% apple, 100% orange, cranberry and fruit cocktail, and come standard with Fair Cape Dairies’ commitment to quality and doing the right thing.

For more information visit: www.faircape.com

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INTRODUCING BOS ROOIBOS SHOTS BOS Brands, the makers of the much-loved BOS Organic Rooibos Ice Tea, has launched a new range of functional rooibos-based health shots. Available in four variants, each 50ml shot is packed with the benefits of brewed organic rooibos, a healthy dose of functional ingredients, and natural fruit juice.

Will Battersby, managing director of BOS Brands South Africa, says: “BOS is short for rooiBOS – our magic ingredient with superfood powers. We wanted to develop a product that leverages rooibos’s unique health benefits and combines it with known functional ingredients, that deliver a specific consumer need while also fulfilling our brand promise that healthy can be fun.”

The range is a welcome addition at a time of strong focus on health and self-care during the Covid-19 crisis, and the company has already seen their Bounce Back immune booster shot attract a lot of attention. Among its many health benefits, rooibos increases the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines (compounds that fight inflammation) and reduces the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (compounds that promotes inflammation). The Bounce Back shot contains brewed organic rooibos, orange juice, lemon juice, ginger extract, turmeric extract, and ascorbic acid (vitamin C). This powerful combination of ingredients with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties helps to defend the body against viruses and bacteria.

Other shots in the range are Chill Out (CBD), Let it Glow (Collagen) and Gut a Problem? (Probiotics).

“The functional rooibos shots range forms part of our strategy to expand the BOS Brands portfolio outside of just ice tea, and to deliver a premium range of products all linked to rooibos. We have an amazing following in South Africa with some passionate fans that love BOS to bits. The shots are appealing to existing consumers who are ready and interested in more functional offerings, and they are attracting consumers who previously wouldn’t have considered our products.

With the response and demand to date, all we need to do is make sure we can make enough. A good challenge to have,” says Battersby.

You can shop for BOS Shots on the BOS online store, or at a wide range of retailers, including Pick n Pay. For more information visit www.bosbrands.com

FIRST CHOICE LAUNCHES NEW HIGH-PROTEIN RECOVERY DRINK First Choice, manufactured by Woodlands Dairy, has launched HighProtein Recovery, scientifically formulated to give elite and amateur athletes rapid muscle recovery following intense workouts or competition.

Says Marisa Maccaferri, marketing manager for Woodlands Dairy and First Choice: “High-Protein Recovery is aimed at the individual who does high-intensity training and needs to recover fast to be ready for the next gruelling session. South Africans love sport and spend a lot of time and money on their favourite discipline. Often, the difference between good and great is what you fuel your body with.”

She explains that repeated exercise or long activity sessions decrease energy stores which lead to fatigue and a decline in performance.

“Prolonged exercise also triggers muscle breakdown during and after training. Chocolate-flavoured milk has long been touted as the go-to recovery drink. That’s because, post-workout, you want a snack or drink that gives you a dose of protein to recover your muscles and carbs to boost your energy, fill up fuel stores and combat fatigue. Minerals such as potassium, sodium and magnesium replace electrolytes lost through sweating,” Maccaferri adds.

Maccaferri continues: “This product is specifically designed for the sportsperson, but can be enjoyed throughout the day as a meal replacement. Although it’s been designed as a post-workout recovery drink, High-Protein Recovery can be included in pre-exercise nutrition to supply carbohydrates and support hydration. It contains more than twice the protein found in normal milk and has been fortified with eight additional B vitamins. It is high in calcium, high in energy and tartrazinefree. It’s ready to drink (no powders and no mixing is required), only high-quality ingredients are used, especially the milk, which is procured locally from predominantly pasture-fed cows.” The product is available in three variants including Chocolate, Peanut Butter and Banana Crème.

For more information visit www.recoverymilk.co.za

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RETAIL INVENTORY

www.spotongmag.co.za

ESSENTIAL

RETAIL STOCK Help fight the spread of Coronovirus by disinfecting and sanitising with these essential products

LIFEBUOY TOTAL GERM PROTECTION ANTIBACTERIAL SOAP BAR In 1894, Lifebuoy soap was first introduced to the world as a soap to fight the spread of germs. For more than 100 years, the famous red bar of soap has been the symbol of how hygiene supports health. As a disinfectant, antibacterial soap, Lifebuoy protects against 99.9% of germs, keeping you and your family clean and healthy.

Lifebuoy’s rich and creamy antibacterial soap eradicates germs while it cleanses, fighting off illness and skin infections. www.lifebuoy.co.za

DETTOL ANTISEPTIC LIQUID A house is not a home without a bottle of iconic Dettol Antiseptic Liquid.

This versatile and trusted Dettol product provides all-round family protection against germs. www.dettol.co.za

LIFEBUOY TOTAL 10 HAND SANITIZER Boost your hand hygiene and immunity to keep fighting germs for up to 10 hours with Lifebuoy Total 10 Hand Sanitizer. It not only kills 99.99% germs instantly, but also boosts your immunity for up to 10 hours. And all this without having to use any water. This makes Lifebuoy Immunity Boosting Hand Sanitizer your defence against germs without having to make a trip to the washbasin. Just take a drop and apply on your palm. Spread and rub over back of your hands and fingertips until dry. Your hands are free from 99.99% germs instantly, without water. www.lifebuoy.co.za

CHUX SUPERWIPES Chux Superwipes are made from special open-weave cloth. The double-action holes enable Superwipes to easily pick up dirt and food particles and allow for the cloth to be hygienically rinsed for use over and over again.

Chux Superwipes are great for washing up, cleaning kitchen appliances, and can be used around the bathroom, laundry and even on the car. Chux Superwipes are available in two sizes: Original (60x30cm) and Giant (60x60cm).

The Chux Superwipes are also available in four colours: blue, pink, green and yellow. Use a different-coloured cloth for different rooms to minimise the risk of cross-contamination or germs. www.chux.co.za

www.dettol.co.za

This well-known South African beauty brand has launched its first hand sanitiser range. It instantly cleanses and protects and is suitable for all skin types, as well as offering 99.99% germ protection. www.clere.co.za

DOMESTOS MULTIPURPOSE REGULAR THICK BLEACH Domestos Multipurpose Regular Thick Bleach will give your home a mean clean wherever it is needed.

A few well-aimed squirts of Domestos leaves surfaces brilliantly clean and germ-free. Domestos Bleach is safe to use on most surfaces, adds extra sparkle and kills all known germs. This bleach can be used inside and outside the home, including kitchen and bathroom surfaces, other washable surfaces and tiles and painted wood surfaces throughout the home including outdoor patio floors. www.domestos.com/za

ALBEX MULTIPURPOSE BLEACH FOAMER It is the ideal product to use for a quick clean. It contains Albex Bleach, so you can rest assured that it will kill 99.9% of germs, making it a great disinfectant. It also has extra foaming and cleaning agents, helping to quickly remove dirt, grease and mould & mildew with minimal effort.

You can choose from three different scented options of floral, lavender and lemon, as well as regular. www.albex.co.za

JEYES FLUID

DETTOL HYGIENE SOAP ORIGINAL Dettol Original Bar Soap is a hygiene soap that provides trusted Dettol protection from a wide range of unseen germs.

It cleanses and protects your skin for a hygienic, clean and refreshing feeling every day. Cleans and protects from up to 100 illness-causing germs.

CLERE HAND SANITISER

JIK CLEAN UP Jik Clean Up, a convenient mix of bleach and cleaner that kills 99.9 % of germs and powers through tough grease and dirt. https://www.facebook.com/ JIKSouthAfrica

A disinfectant ideally used outdoors. Simply dilute with water and start easy cleaning and deodorising.

Killing 99.9% of germs, this strong disinfectant is effective at killing many different types of germs in the outdoor environment. www.jeyes.co.za

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NEW ONLINE DRINKS-ORDERING PLATFORM LAUNCHES FOR TAVERNS Introducing the Hola Club Click & Collect platform

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he alcohol industry is committed to ensuring a safe and responsible return to trade. Touchsides, in partnership with industry leaders Heineken SA, Diageo and Pernod Ricard, have launched the Hola Club Click & Collect online drinks buying platform, which will help do just that.

Hola Club Click & Collect offers a safe and convenient option to sell and buy drinks at local taverns. The platform enables consumers to preorder their favourite drink to collect at a chosen time. This significantly reduces waiting times and eliminates the need to queue.

This platform enables licensed tavern owners to operate more effectively and safely, and to comply with regulations such as facilitating social distancing and limiting the number of consumers on the premises at any one time. This initiative is in line with the call for responsible consumption at home during alert level 3 of the countrywide lockdown aimed at reducing Covid-19 infections.

“Our current reality requires innovations that demonstrate that businesses prioritise the safety of their staff, consumers and the community where they operate. South Africans are no strangers to providing digital solutions for our unique challenges and Hola Club Click & Collect does just that. Working with industry partners and stakeholders, we are confident this platform will assist in creating safe spaces for trade during this pandemic,” says Mongi Tshabalala from Touchsides.

How it works for tavern owners: 1. Sign up on www.holaclub.co.za and create a seller account.

2. In the app, a seller is able to see bookings from the consumer, which allows them to pre-pack orders and have them ready for collection.

3. The app also allows them to know in advance what drinks their consumers will purchase and be able to stock the right products.

How it works for consumers: 1. Sign up on www.holaclub.co.za and create a buyer account.

2. They then select their drink of choice from a list of products, choose a preferred time slot for collection and confirm where they would like to collect.

3. Consumers receive a confirmation of a time slot for them to collect their order, and from which tavern.

4. Consumers don’t need to queue at the collection point. They simply collect their order and pay.

It is free to register for tavern owners and consumers, and the platform uses minimal mobile data. Hola Club Click & Collect is an extension of the existing Hola Club, the free rewards programme that brings consumer deals and discounts on favourite alcohol brands. To make Hola Club Click & Collect accessible to all, tavern owners and consumers do not need to be existing Hola Club members to benefit from the service.

LIQUOR INVENTORY

Issue 34

ESSENTIAL

LIQUOR STOCK RED HEART RUM Red Heart Rum is triple distilled and is an aromatic blend of 18 different types of Caribbean rum.

4TH STREET NATURAL SWEET WHITE 4th Street Natural Sweet White is crisp and fruity and the perfect accompaniment to wherever the streets take you.

www.pernod-ricard.co.za

COUNT PUSHKIN Five-times distilled, which makes it pure enough to enjoy neat. Crystal clear in every respect. Full and bold with great impact in the mouth.

Lively flow across the palate with an energetic feel. Incredibly neutral with a clean, tingling feeling in a crisp finish. Versatile and just what a neutral vodka should be. www.countpushkin.co.za

FIREWATER CANADIAN WHISKY Firewater is a Canadian whisky blended with a natural cinnamon flavour. It is a top-five distilled spirits brand in the United States and ranks the #1 brand on-premises calls. Best served alone as a shot and available in 750ml or 12 x 750ml cases. www.trumanandorange.com

FLYING FISH CHILLED GREEN APPLE

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SOUTHERN COMFORT LIME LIQUEUR WHISKY The original and distinctive spirit of New Orleans – known for its combination of fruit, spice and whiskey flavours – is balanced with an extra zest of lime flavour to produce a perfectly mixed, ready-to-pour drink.

Southern Comfort Lime complements the original flavour, with the addition of lime lending itself to the fun and sociability associated with the parent brand and its common mixing ritual. It’s mixed and ready to go for any occasion, best served chilled as a shot or shaken over ice. www.southerncomfort.com

www.4thstreet.co.za

HAYMAN’S GIN

JOHNNIE WALKER RED LABEL Crafted from the four corners of Scotland, it crackles with spice and is bursting with vibrant, smoky flavours – followed by a mellow bed of vanilla, a fresh zestiness and the Johnnie Walker signature of a long, lingering, smoky finish.

Touted as a gin for people who understand gin, Hayman’s is a true English London Dry Gin, made in England using a 150-year-old family recipe of just ten botanicals steeped in English wheat spirit for a full day before distillation. It is a fresh, bright and classically balanced gin with crisp citrus, subtle notes of exotic spice and the remarkable depth and complexity traditionally associated with the London Dry Style. It’s also unquestionably premium. www.trumanandorange.com

www.johnniewalker.com

CASTLE LAGER Castle Lager is South Africa’s oldest beer brand - the iconic, somewhat dry, somewhat bitter, never sweet beer. It still represents the quintessential South African experience and the values of friendship and coming together. Known for the perfect balance between dry and bitter, Castle Lager is thirst-quenching, flavoursome and balanced. www.castlelager.co.za

ROBERTSON WINERY SPARKLING BRUT ROSÉ

A sweet and sour mash-up of green apple flavour, expertly mixed with refreshing beer.

Delightfully pink and dry with a vivacious sparkle, elegantly refreshing, charmingly drinkable and vibrantly packaged perfectly sums up Brut Rosé.

With a gorgeous strawberry blush, enticing floral and candied fruit aromas that captivate the senses, juicy wild strawberry flavours that linger with each sip, a fine lively mousse and a generous aftertaste, this enchanting Brut Rosé leaves your taste buds calling for more. It is refreshingly fun, decidedly fruity and very easy to love! Available nationally at leading grocers and liquor retailers.

www.addsomeflavour.co.za

www.robertsonwinery.co.za

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NEW LIQUOR PRODUCTS

www.spotongmag.co.za

BRAND NEW BEVERAGES NEW SCORE PASSION ENERGY DRINK Chill Beverages International, which produces Score, the energy drink with attitude, has launched a brand-new passion fruit taste sensation.

New Score Passion is a blast of sparkling passion fruit with a double shot of guarana for that natural caffeine kick and a healthy dose of B vitamins. Consumers love the re-energising power of Score to fuel their passion and take their vitality to the next level.

Easy to mix with fresh herbs and fruit, Score Passion makes a cheeky mocktail for any occasion.

Taurine-free and big on taste, Score Passion is the ultimate energy drink. It’s available in mega 500ml cans in pack configurations of 6 X 500ml and 24 X 500ml.

For more information go to www.chillbev.co.za

THE DEAD RABBIT IRISH WHISKEY LAUNCHES IN SA The Dead Rabbit Irish Whiskey is the most disruptive thing to happen in the Irish whiskey industry. Irish whiskey has seen a major distilling revival and growth against Scotch whisky.

Drawing its inspiration from the notorious Irish street gang in New York City in the 1800s, The Dead Rabbit Irish Whiskey made its South African debut in March 2020. The Dead Rabbit is for the rebels, the rejects, the misunderstood.

The Dead Rabbit Irish Whiskey is a new super-premium quality Irish whiskey that aims to capture all the edge and attitude of the legendary and award-winning Irish bar of the same name, located in downtown Manhattan, New York City. It is a five-year old blend featuring Irish malt and grain whiskey, matured in bourbon casks for five years before being rested in virgin American oak, crafted by master distiller Darryl McNally in collaboration with founders Jack McGarry and Sean Muldoon. The Dead Rabbit Irish Whiskey is best enjoyed on the rocks, as the base for mixed drinks or even in an Irish coffee. Available at all major retailers and wholesalers.

For more information go to www.DeadRabbitIrishWhiskey.co.za

GREENALL’S LAUNCHES BLUEBERRY GIN As the world adjusts to a more homebound lifestyle, at least for the time being, B2C Premium Drinks is happy to bring some fresh innovation with the launch of the Greenall’s Blueberry variant in South Africa.

Greenall’s Original London Dry Gin has been infused with natural sweet blueberries – popular the world over, having gained ‘superfood’ status – to create the latest offering in the Greenall’s Gin collection, Greenall’s Blueberry, crisp and refreshing.

Gin lovers the world over will love it not only for its cool fruity take on the original classic London Dry Gin, but also for its zero added sugar content.

With zero added sugar, cool fruity flavour, striking blue hue and unmistakable gin character, Greenall’s Blueberry is right on trend for today’s consumers. Not only does it outperform competitor brands on taste, style and quality, but it also provides unbeatable value.

The new Blueberry variant joins Greenall’s Original London Dry Gin and Greenall’s Wild Berry Gin in the brand’s range in South Africa and will be available online and at all major retailers & wholesalers.

For more information go to www.greenallsgin.com

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NEW LIQUOR PRODUCTS

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BREW GINGER BEER AT HOME WITH ZWAKALA Everything you need to freshly brew ginger beer right at home just add water!

Zwakala, which means “come closer” turns into a refreshing drink, sweet on the palate, with a deep long-lasting ginger character. A true South African favourite! Mix with soda water to create a less sweet taste and add a slice of lemon for the perfect summer drink.

In addition to its gingery, addictive taste and its boozy bonus, alcoholic ginger beer is also fun to make and the fermentation process is easier than you might think.

• Empty contents of the packet into a 2-litre bottle.

• Add 2 litres of lukewarm water and mix well - Do not add boiling water. Do not tighten the cap of the bottle as the bottle will burst during fermentation.

• Allow to stand in a warm area for 48-72 hours to start the fermentation process.

• Makes up to 10% alcohol.

• Drink cold and enjoy Africa’s favourite ginger beer!

Available as a 390g sachet and the product is packaged into x30 sachet bale with 100 bales on 1 pallet (x3000 sachets per pallet) If you are interested in becoming a reseller or stocking Zwakala Ginger Beer in your spaza shop, visit: https://bitrix24public.com/b24-cu1xcz.bitrix24.com/form/5_ enquire_now/2v85ef/?fbclid=IwAR2aV-Lhqt434dhd96IJlG_ BSR6LwgSSFNwDJAWzZwtiYB9ehaWm2T7r5PQ For general enquiries visit the Facebook page: https://web.facebook.com/ZwakalaGingerBeer/

FITCH & LEEDES LAUNCHES SIGNATURE TONICS IN ECO-FRIENDLY CONTAINER Fitch & Leedes, the premium range of authentic mixers from Chill Beverages International, goes big with new eco-friendly 1-litre PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottles for the popular Pink and Indian Tonics in regular and sugar-free.

PET products are 100% recyclable and as a proud product of South Africa, Fitch & Leedes is a committed member of PETCO, the post-consumer PET plastic recycling company.

“With the uncertain times in which we find ourselves, we understand that our consumers are faced with their own set of challenges. We have listened to the needs of our loyal devotees by ensuring they may continue to enjoy the premium quality of our products at a value offering they can trust and appreciate in the comfort of their homes,” says James Shaw, Fitch & Leedes marketing manager.

Embossed with the Fitch & Leedes ship, the signature mark of quality, these value-friendly 1-litre tonics in recyclable PET are on-trend, reinforcing the brand promise of pushing boundaries in the pursuit of excellence in terms of product innovation, quality and taste.

Because it is crafted for the utmost purity to accentuate the character of fine spirits, consumers will soon be back to savouring their favourite gin with Fitch & Leedes, the distiller’s mixer of choice.

Fitch & Leedes Pink and Indian Tonics are available in 1-litre PET bottles at leading retailers.

For more information go to www.chillbev.co.za

E D TE OES RT Nt HAN GET THIS

IR C T E B

The tastiest dishes begin with a few quality basics, like Spekko Rice.

Spekko is the 100% Thai rice, that is grown by the best producers in the best estates in the world. We ensure that every grain of rice that goes into every pack is of a premium quality. So what you get out, is nothing but the best. Why would you choose any other rice?

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RECIPES

www.spotongmag.co.za

LOCKDOWN MEALS FOR

SHARING WITH THE FAMILY While you sit and plan your next family feast, consider these lekker, classically South African recipes with a twist, conjured up by celebrity chef Lentswe Bhengu, featuring Bull Brand Corned Meat as the star ingredient.

CRISPY BULL BRAND PIZZA Win your family over with this yeast-free, thin-and-crispy crust pizza.

It’s easy to make and easy to love.

INGREDIENTS (Makes 2 pizzas) • 1 x 410g can Rhodes Quality tomato purée • 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped • a few basil leaves, torn into smaller pieces • salt and pepper to taste • 160ml (⅔ cup) ice-cold water • 60ml (4 tbsp) olive oil • 500ml (2 cups) cake flour • 5ml (1t) salt • extra olive oil for brushing • 500ml (2 cups) grated or sliced Mozzarella cheese

• 1 small red onion, coarsely sliced or chopped • 125g mushrooms, sliced or chopped • 125ml (½ cup) each black and green olives, pitted • 1 small red pepper, diced • 1 small green pepper, diced • cherry tomatoes, cut in half • 1 x 300g can Bull Brand Corned Meat, cut into small cubes or thin slices • salt, freshly ground black pepper and dried origanum

METHOD For the sauce, combine the tomato purée, garlic and basil and heat and set aside to cool. For the bases, mix the water and 60ml oil. Place the flour and mix until smooth. Let the dough rest for 15 minutes then divide it in two and roll out each piece thinly. Place on greased baking sheets and brush with extra oil. Bake in a preheated oven at 230°C for 5 – 8 minutes or until cooked. Spread the bases with sauce, cover with cheese and arrange the rest of the ingredients on top. Season with salt, pepper and origanum and bake for 5 minutes or until the cheese melts then slice and serve.

MAMMA’S VETKOEK STUFFED WITH CHAKALAKA CORNED MEAT Nothing says comfort food better than a warm vetkoek and with the addition of chakalaka corned meat, you’re in for a real treat.

INGREDIENTS (Serves 6) FILLING

VETKOEK

• • • • •

• • • • • •

3 tbsp vegetable oil 1 medium onion, chopped 3 cloves garlic, crushed ½ tsp cayenne pepper 2 cans Bull Brand Chakalaka Corned Meat • 2 tbsp barbeque spice • 2 cups chopped vegetables (use whatever you have in the fridge - celery, beans, sweet potato, carrot) OR 2 cups drained Rhodes Quality Mixed Vegetable • salt and p epper to taste

1kg flour, plus extra for dusting 120g sugar 1 10g sachet instant yeast 2 tbsp oil 1 tbsp Salt 1L warm water, keep 1 cup extra (if dough is too stiff) • vegetable oil, for deep frying

METHOD CHAKALAKA CORNED MEAT FILLING: Heat the oil, in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Season with salt and pepper. Add the onion, cayenne pepper and garlic and sauté until the onion softens. Add the corned meat, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 5 minutes until browned. Stir in the barbeque spice and cook for one minute. Add chopped vegetables and peas, stirring until cooked through. Check seasoning.

VETKOEK: Mix the flour, sugar, yeast, oil, salt and warm water. Add extra water only if necessary. Knead thoroughly, then allow to prove for 30 minutes until double in original size (this will take longer on a cold day). Dust a tray with flour. Scoop up handfuls of dough and roll into balls. Place the vetkoek on the tray and allow to rise until doubled in size. Heat the oil in a deep saucepan. Deep-fry a few vetkoek at a time (do not a lot of balls at the same time). Keep turning the balls after every 2 minutes.

Check the vetkoek after 10 minutes – they should have risen to the top of the oil. Drain on kitchen paper until ready to serve.

RECIPES

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GOGO’S COTTAGE PIE A popular dish, with a Gogo twist, that will serve spoonfuls of happiness for the whole family.

INGREDIENTS (Serves 4-6) • 2 cans Bull Brand Corned Meat • 1 pocket potatoes, cleaned with skins on (for mash) • 2 onions, chopped • 2 cloves garlic, chopped • 1 red pepper, chopped • 2 tbsp tomato paste

• • • • • • •

15ml Worcestershire sauce 1tbsp mixed herbs 1 cup frozen mixed veggies 3 carrots, grated 1 tsp baking powder (optional) 100ml milk salt and white pepper to taste

METHOD In a large frying pan over medium to high heat, sauté onions, garlic and pepper till soft. Season with salt and pepper. Add the corned meat and fry off until well combined, adding salt, pepper, mixed herbs, tomato paste, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, mixing in well. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the carrots and simmer till soft. Turn off the heat, add the mixed veggies, stir and close the lid. Allow the veggies to cook within the residual heat.

MINI MEAT AND PAP TARTS These lekker pap tarts combine two of our country’s favourite dishes – pap and meat. You can bake them as individual servings or as one large hearty tart.

INGREDIENTS (Serves 6-8) • • • •

1L water 500ml (2 cups) maize meal salt to taste 1 large onion, cut into thin wedges or slices • 2 cloves garlic, crushed • sunflower or olive oil • 1 x 300g can Bull Brand Corned Meat, cut into small cubes

• • • • •

10 black olives, halved salt and pepper to taste 3 large eggs 125ml (½ cup) milk 10ml (2 tsp) dried thyme or parsley • 250ml (1 cup) grated cheddar cheese • 5ml (1 tsp) prepared mustard

METHOD Mix the water and maize meal in a saucepan, season with salt to taste and bring to the boil while stirring. Reduce heat, cover and simmer on very low for about 45 minutes or until cooked, stirring occasionally.

Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool. Meanwhile, prepare the filling by frying the onion in oil until golden and soft. Add the garlic and can of Bull Brand Corned Meat and fry until the meat is lightly browned then stir in the olives, cover and set aside. Once the maize pap has cooled, whisk in 1 egg and then press the mixture into the bottom and sides of 6 to 8 small, loose-bottom tart pans or one large pie dish. Spoon the meat filling into the tart bases. Whisk the 2 remaining eggs with the rest of the ingredients and pour into the tarts. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 30 – 40 minutes, or until the fillings are just set. Serve with salad.

For the mash, cut the potatoes in quarters. Add salt to taste and the potatoes to a pot of cold water. Bring the pot to the boil and cook the potatoes till soft. Drain the liquid with strainer and mash the potatoes with a masher. Add the milk. Add the baking powder to give the mash a fluffier texture.

To assemble, preheat the grill. Lightly grease an oven dish. Layer the mince at the bottom of the pan, patting it down gently with a spoon and levelling it out. Add the mash on top of the mince and spread out evenly (optional – you can pipe the mash using a piping bag). Put the pie in the oven and cook till the mash is lightly browned.

Follow Bull Brand on Facebook for more tips, recipes or visit: www.bullbrand.co.za

COCKTAIL RECIPES

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SHAKE UP YOUR LOCKDOWN WITH

FITCH & LEEDES Five easy-to-make mocktails for happy hour at home

CRANBERRY CREAM MOCKTAIL INGREDIENTS • • • • •

THE CLASSIC MOJITO INGREDIENTS

MALIBU PEACH LEMONADE SLUSHIE INGREDIENTS • 160g fresh peaches or nectarines (peeled and frozen) • 120g fresh pineapple (peeled and frozen) • 350ml F&L Peach Lemonade • Ice cubes (optional) METHOD Blend all the fruit together and pour into a glass.

Top up with F&L Peach Lemonade ice cubes.

For a “slushie” texture, add a few blocks of ice to the blender.

• 12 to 14 small mint leaves • 30ml fresh lime juice • 1 tbsp superfine sugar (or replace with simple syrup made from xylitol) • 120ml F&L Club Soda

• • • • • • •

1 large English cucumber strips of lime zest 2 tsp raw sugar – optional 2 lemon or lime wedges F&L Bitter Lemon 30ml fresh lime juice 120ml gin (optional)

METHOD Fill the blender with ice cubes, add all ingredients and blend. Add the grenadine to the bottom of your glass and top with your Cranberry Cream.

METHOD Blend all the ingredients together and garnish with mint leaves and a wedge of lime. Serves 2.

SPICY GINGER ICE TEA INGREDIENTS

METHOD

• • • • •

Fill glass halfway with crushed ice (add a little F&L ginger ale to get your ice moving in your blender).

Add ginger ale and tea to taste.

375ml honey & ginger tea (you can use any herbal blend) 250ml crushed frozen pineapple pieces 200ml F&L Ginger Ale lemon slice and a few frozen berries to garnish ice cubes

CLOUDY CUCUMBER GIN MOCKTAIL INGREDIENTS

100ml F&L Cheeky Cranberry 80ml apple juice or purée 40ml lime juice 20ml cream of coconut 2 dashes grenadine

METHOD Place a whole cucumber with half a bottle of dry lemon into the blender (peeling optional).

Run it through a fine sieve and collect the juice in a glass with ice cubes, add in some freshly squeezed lime juice and a slice of lime. Top up with a F&L Bitter Lemon and garnish with lime zest and a cucumber slice.

Garnish with berries.

PROPERTY

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OWN YOUR

OWN HOME! Take advantage of the buyers’ market and use FLISP to purchase your first property

S

trange as it may seem, right now is an excellent time to buy your first property. A record low repo rate of 3,50%, the lowest since 1973, and record high home-loan approvals are combining to afford first-time buyers an advantageous opportunity for getting into the property market. Getting your foot in the property door is now a reality for many first-time buyers and with the help of FLISP, many are well on their way to owning their very own home.

What is FLISP? The finance-linked individual subsidy programme, or FLISP, is a government-backed initiative to promote and secure first-time home ownership for lower income earners in South Africa. FLISP makes it possible for people like you to own the home you want. FLISP was introduced by the department of human settlements in 2012 and the income threshold for the programme was increased in July 2018. FLISP is like being given free money just so you can afford to buy your first home. You don’t need to pay back your FLISP subsidy at any time.

How FLISP works FLISP provides lower and medium income earners with a substantial subsidy that can be used to purchase property. Subject to pre-approval of a home loan, FLISP subsidies can be applied for by any South African family whose household income falls between R3 501 and R22 000 per month.

Previously, the maximum threshold was set at R15 000 per month, but FLISP is now a n option for many more citizens.

What can you use a FLISP subsidy for?

Applying for a bond to buy your first home can seem a terrifying prospect when you’re not a big money earner. The South African government, motivated by its desire to uplift and empower every citizen, created FLISP to enable lower and medium income earners towards claiming their stake in the property market. As a subsidy, FLISP can be used to put down a deposit on your first home or used to shorten your home loan repayment period or lower the monthly repayment amounts.

FLISP subsidy criteria • If your family’s monthly income falls between R3 501 and R22 000 per month, you may apply for a FLISP subsidy. There are other qualifying criteria, so keep these in mind when you want to apply for a FLISP subsidy: • You must be a South African citizen, over the age of 18, and you must be married, cohabiting, or be a single person with a dependent. FLISP aims to enable families to own their own homes.

• Your bank or financial institution must have already approved you for a home loan. You can’t apply for a FLISP subsidy from the government until you have been approved for a home loan.

• Of course, applying for a home loan means you’ll need to be credit checked, and agree to all the terms and conditions as set out by your financial institution.

• Your household income will be analysed in your application for a FLISP subsidy. Your total household income must not exceed R22 000 per month.

• You cannot have previously benefited from a housing subsidy or government housing programme. For example, if you live in an RDP house, you cannot receive a FLISP subsidy.

• FLISP is a one-time payment subsidy. You cannot apply for a second FLISP subsidy when you want to purchase a second home.

Your FLISP subsidy amount We used the FLISP website’s subsidy calculator to work out how much you can expect to receive from your FLISP subsidy. For example, if your household’s monthly income is between: • R3 501 and R3 700, you can apply for a FLISP subsidy of up to R121 626.

• R7 101 and R7 300, you can apply for a FLISP subsidy of up to R102 893.

• R21 801 and R22 000, you can apply for a FLISP subsidy of up to R27 960.

Where to apply for a FLISP subsidy As FLISP is a government-backed initiative, the department of human settlement administers and processes applications for a FLISP subsidy.

Once you’ve been pre-approved for a home loan, apply for a FLISP subsidy at your local department of human settlement office, or call the National Housing Finance Corporation.

For more information visit: www.flisp.co.za

36

ADVERTORIAL

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FAST FIBRE INTERNET MAKES LIFE BETTER

FOR SOWETO RESIDENTS Residents of Soweto now have access to fast, affordable prepaid internet in the comfort and safety of their own homes

P

eople living in Soweto will have noticed the construction work taking place in the area over the last few months, with pavements outside homes being dug up and new cables being installed. This is exciting news for residents of Moroka, Mofolo South, Mofolo North, Mofolo Central, Dube and Orlando West, who are now able to enjoy fast, reliable fibre internet delivered straight to their homes with Vuma and Webafrica.

Fibre gives families the freedom to download unlimited movies and music, watch their favourite soaps and TV shows, surf social media and do research for projects from home. It’s faster than any other type of internet connection, which means you won’t have to wait a whole day for a movie or series to download. In fact, downloading a movie takes just a few minutes!

Fibre is also good for business and makes working from home much easier. Entrepreneurs can access internet banking from home where it’s safe to log into their accounts, instead of at an internet café, for example. They can even set up a website and speak to customers online thanks to fibre, which won’t cut off or stall in the middle of a work project.

What’s fibre again?

Fibre, or fibre optics, transfers data through glass cables (fibre optic cables) at the speed of light. These cables deliver lightning-fast internet connectivity to homes, allowing you to browse, stream, download and upload content more efficiently than other connection types, such as ADSL, LTE or 5G. It is also more reliable than other connection types, not being affected by external factors such as weather.

OK, so what’s the difference between fibre, ADSL, LTE and 5G? ADSL is an internet connection that uses copper cable technology (the same cables used for landline phones) to deliver internet services to your home. As the demand for faster, more reliable and affordable internet services grows, ADSL has lost its popularity and is currently being phased out in South Africa.

LTE internet is a wireless type of connectivity that uses mobile data to access the internet. The quality of this type of internet connection depends on how far away you are from signal towers, as well as weather conditions.

5G is a relatively new type of wireless internet connectivity that also uses mobile data to access the internet. Much like LTE, while 5G is expected to offer faster internet speeds than LTE, the quality of your connection still depends on how far away you are from cell towers, and connections also rely on mobile data. “It also requires expensive equipment to work – anything from R1 000 up – and more importantly, many phones are not 5G compatible. In fact, Apple, for example, has yet to release a phone capable of connecting to a 5G network,” says Jeremy Wilkinson, the marketing manager at Webafrica.

Neither LTE nor 5G are a match at the moment for the reliability and affordability of having a fibre connection installed in the home.

How will fibre make my life better?

Because of its incredibly speedy download rates, switching to prepaid fibre for your home comes with great benefits. For instance, you and your family’s entertainment needs are taken care because multiple devices can be logged onto the internet at the same time. You also have access to unlimited data, which means you can stream, download, browse the internet and social media, and game to your heart’s content.

Fibre connections are also unlimited. In human terms, that means you won’t have to worry about your line speed dropping or dying on you completely, no matter how much you use it.

Fibre has also become more widely accessible over the years as fibre providers work to extend coverage areas. It’s also more affordable than ever before as fibre prices grow increasingly competitive, and you won’t need a landline to get connected – just the Vuma fibre connection, which means that the fibre cables from the street will be installed into your home.

Some of the benefits of fibre to the home include: • Save on data. Spend less on mobile data.

Prepaid fibre gives you unlimited data to use at home, ensuring you only use your mobile data when you leave the house.

• Stay safe. Family members, especially children, won’t need to leave the safety of their homes just to access the internet.

• Entertainment for everyone. The whole family can watch movies, sports and series, listen to music online, and browse the internet – all at the same time and from the comfort of your home.

• Work from home. Entrepreneurs can easily run a successful business from home with the help of a reliable fibre internet connection – buy and sell goods, chat to customers, bank, and promote a business online without interruptions Thanks to Vuma and Webafrica, prepaid fibre packages are available for residents in Soweto.

Residents can order unlimited prepaid fibre internet services from Webafrica for just R399 a month, and a technician will then be sent to their home to get everything connected – free of charge.

Fibre to Schools Vuma ensures that every primary and high school in the Vuma Fibre Reach network receives a free fibre connection. Vuma’s Fibre to Schools programme makes sure that young people are able to learn more effectively in the classroom, without high data costs. Vuma, together with Webafrica, have already connected Igugu Primary School with free 1GBPS fibre internet services, and more schools will follow soon. The introduction of fibre internet to schools opens up a whole new world world of possibilities for learners and teachers.

Valuable insights, e-learning platforms and online educational tools are only a click away.

For more information on Vuma Fibre Reach visit www.vumareach.co.za

Issue 34

PROPERTY

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SMALL BUSINESSES GROW INTO MEDIUM-SIZED ONES - AND BEYOND Check out NuPay’s full suite of payment and collection solutions

O

ffering authenticated payment and collection solutions helps businesses to start small and increase their offerings as the business grows, using a single service provider committed to their customers’ success.

Most businesses start out small with limited capital and some have gone on to become industry giants over time. NuPay has a full suite of payment and collection solutions to help small businesses grow into medium-sized businesses and beyond. Having the right tools to increase your collection rate, as well as having a product that fits with each function of your business, can be what it takes to put a business on the path to success.

AEDO (authenticated early debit order), in conjunction with NuPay’s range of collection solutions, can help any micro-enterprise grow into an SME and beyond.

“A large portion of our customer base effectively started out as micro-enterprises, being one-man shows,” says Keith Wrede, deputy managing director for NuPay. “Our proven solutions have helped these businesses grow into small, medium and corporatesized businesses by partnering with the right collection and payment solutions like AEDO, which is one of the best mechanisms available today to ensure collections growth.”

AEDO is a PIN-based mandated transaction that can be used in any business that needs to collect fees for any type of service or credit offered. Collections would typically occur over a number of months and would include collections for education fees, subscriptions, rentals, credit repayments, monthly services and more.

“Customers will dispute a direct debit order simply because they don’t want to pay,” says Keith Wrede of NuPay. Being an authenticated collection mechanism means that once the AEDO transaction has processed successfully, the collection is finalised and this finality leads to healthier and better cash flow. The disadvantages of standard and enhanced debit orders, such as disputed debit orders, which adversely affect cash flow, are not a factor with AEDO and the business can carry on with its normal course of business and not spend time and effort on payment follow-ups and collections, allowing businesses to focus on their core functions.

Wrede says that where DebiCheck is concerned, “it will now be up to the consumer to authenticate and approve a debit order at the start of the new contract, and the consumer will need to agree to the terms of the payment schedule, ensuring the user authorises the details. This is known as authorising the debit order mandate.”

There are other ways to authorise the debit order mandate, including through cellphone banking apps, internet banking and even at an ATM, but to speed things up, having your phone number registered at the bank will be the quickest.

The fastest way the bank can use to check with you will be by sending you a USSD message with the details of the mandate and the user will need to reply to the USSD message. Of course, this will depend on the consumer’s bank having the correct cellphone number on record.

If your bank does not have your cellphone number, it can delay the finalisation of your contract with the DebiCheck user. The consumer also needs to understand that if the DebiCheck debit order is processed according to the terms that you agreed to, you will not be able to reverse the transaction (unless you are asking the bank to investigate a fraud charge against the DebiCheck user).

DebiCheck is safer than normal debit orders, because: • You have to authorise the mandate details with the bank, so both the bank and you will know what going to be processed and when it is due.

• The bank will check the details before allowing your account to be debited.

• You will be able to suspend the mandate if anything goes wrong.

• You will be able to claim the funds back under certain conditions.

You have certain obligations as well: • You must ensure that your correct cellphone number is always registered with the bank.

• You must make sure your account has enough money to honour the transaction.

• You cannot reverse a transaction that has been processed according to the terms of the agreement.

For a company like NuPay, this means strengthening relationships with banks and their customers to ensure the end-consumer leverages the full benefits of DebiCheck and to ensure customer service delivery is smoothly regulated according to industry standards.

NuPay is a PCI-DSS certified transaction service provider and is the leader in managed electronic payment solutions. NuPay offers proven business solutions within the authenticated (terminalbased, card present), non-authenticated (card not present) and web-based product space, providing secure solutions for payments and collections to all industries.

NuPay is a division of the Altron Group.

Issue 33

TECHNOLOGY

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TOWNSHIP TRADE

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EXPAND YOUR TOWNSHIP BUSINESS Take your business to greater heights with these offers for township traders

DISTELL’S CLICK2COLLECT PLATFORM CONNECTS CONSUMERS WITH TAVERNS It’s safe, it’s smart, it’s simple and any mobile device will offer users access to the platform. South Africans can now order a wide range of their favourite alcoholic drinks via Click2Collect.co.za, a web-based solution introduced by Distell, South Africa’s leading producer and marketer of wines, spirits, ciders and other ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages, sold across the world.

Click2Collect.co.za allows consumers to locate their nearest liquor outlet – some they may not even have been aware of – to place an order for payment on collection. The consumer then books collection for a specific date and time.

The platform makes it convenient for users, cuts out queueing and means it’s easy to avoid crowds and maintain safe social distancing.

I-KASI MARKET PLACE GIVES YOUR BUSINESS THE EDGE! If you are a small business in Gauteng’s townships’ then I-Kasi Market Place is for you. Unemployment rates are skyrocketing in the current economic climate, and more small business start-ups will happen. The biggest problem small to medium start-ups experience is the marketing of their products and services.

The I-Kasi marketing team are seasoned digital marketers who understand that your business needs exposure. Their digital marketing strategy makes use of social media, e-mail marketing and search engine optimisation to send traffic to I-Kasi Market Place. Customers will have a look at all the suppliers’ products in the I-Kasi Market Place’ business hub. This means that township businesses can be exposed to the formal market, where the buying power is much higher than in townships.

This would mean a decent price for subscriber’s goods and services, and greater profits.

I-Kasi gives small and medium businesses the edge. They don’t need a costly website and digital marketing to market their website. I-Kasi does this for you. All subscribers have the opportunity to sell from the I-Kasi Market Place, and with the platform, it would be possible to buy from suppliers, who in turn would deliver the products to the customer, saving you time and money.

The products on I-Kasi range from beauty products to services like tombstone manufacturers. All businesses in townships that seek exposure to markets like Facebook and Instagram are exposed to this technology by connecting people to sell the subscriber’s products. Subscribers receive easy and secure payments in their bank accounts through the payment gateway.

Businesses in townships can grow with the technology I-Kasi offers. I-Kasi Market Place is ideal for community projects and products. I-Kasi Market Place’s reach is also international as they are able to drive exposure of individual products on search engines such as Bing and Google.

For a mere R200 per month and 5% success fee, subscribers receive exposure to a market that ensures their growth. I-Kasi Market Place offers technology and logistics to ensure safe and transparent trading. All subscribers are vetted and all suppliers are monitored to ensure a healthy and safe trading environment.

To subscribe visit www.i-kasi.co.za

The platform connects consumers with more than 22 000 taverns countrywide and although designed by Distell, it allows consumers to order any alcoholic beverage, including those offered by other producers.

Distell is first implementing a special pilot project in the Western Cape to test the platform to ensure quick, smooth and convenient user capability. Said Wilson Khupe, Distell’s head of sales and distribution in Southern Africa: “We are collaborating and working with selected taverns in the Western Cape, offering them support, educational content and tools.

Importantly, we are also soliciting feedback from these taverns to tweak where necessary in order to deliver a best-in-class solution.

“Apart from the obvious benefits for consumers such as safety and convenience in obtaining their alcoholic beverages of choice, the system enables taverns to trade in a socially responsible manner, as well as allows access to data that will allow them to focus on what their patrons want and avoid the burden of unnecessary stock.”

Khupe adds: “Distell is committed to assisting taverns, restaurants and other licenced establishments to continue trading responsibly, so they can generate an income, maintain staff and pay overheads during this challenging time.”

TOWNSHIP TRADE

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SPOON MONEY LETS INFORMAL TRADERS BECOME SUSTAINABLE AND PROFITABLE Street vendors or informal traders are often their households’ only source of income, however, they are often forgotten in discussions around financial and other support for micro-businesses by those concerned with entrepreneur and small business development.

Some of the issues they confront daily are access to credit to replenish their stock, building their financial capabilities and resilience, business development advice and support as well as transitioning from subsistence to stable and profitable enterprises.

How Click2Collect works: Click2Collect.co.za allows orders to be collected from Monday to Thursday between 09:00 and 17:00, as per current liquor trading and consumption regulations, with only 20 slots allocated per hour, making social distancing easier to maintain.

On accessing the platform via QR code or by going to www.click2collect.co.za, users need to confirm that they are of legal drinking age before being allowed to use the site. They are then able to use the search bar to find the nearest taverns to their home. They can click the red location item to choose their preferred liquor outlet. This minimises the need for travelling excessive distances to purchase alcohol and therefore limits potential exposure to the coronavirus.

The consumer will then need to input their details, including their name and surname, e-mail address and cell number, choose their preferred pick-up date and time, and add their items to the cart before checking out.

Once an order is placed on the Click2Collect. co.za platform, the liquor outlet and consumer each receive confirmation via SMS, containing a link with the order details, ticket number and address of the pickup point.

On collection, consumers are required to show their confirmation with their ID as proof that they are over 18 years of age. They pay for their order, receive their goods and encouraged to enjoy their purchase at home.

For more on Distell and its portfolio of brands, go to www.distell.co.za

Spoon Money’s founder, Nicky Swartz, says, “Our mission is to support women in lowincome market segments to build sustainable and profitable businesses. With our country re-emerging after nearly two months under lockdown, level 3 lockdown will see many informal traders resuming their business activities. They need support to get back on their feet and to grow their businesses in a way that will enable it to be around for many years to come.”

Recognising the vital role that the informal trading sector plays in communities, as well as its contribution to job creation, Spoon Money provides support to traders to grow their businesses. The initiative is based on stokvel principles, where a group of five or more women form a group to access Spoon Money’s suite of products.

Once approved, the groups start saving with Spoon Money, and are able to apply for credit to boost their businesses. This model differs from the traditional stokvel in that it invests group savings or contributions into external investment vehicles to generate returns for members. Improved cashflows make it possible to build up reserves to cover unexpected financial needs, or to improve their standards of living over the long term.

To build up a cash reserve is critical to the survival of small businesses, as has been highlighted by the Covid-19 crisis. The Spoon Money model includes a savings component

where members are required to contribute a monthly minimum of R100. Says Nicky, “Business owners are encouraged to set a savings target, and work towards achieving this; contributions from each business is invested with a reputable asset manager who is able to provide access to wealth-creating capital markets. Participants are able to withdraw their savings at any time, provided their group is in good standing.”

Spoon Money participant Veliswa Sikweza, a spaza shop owner in Site B, Khayelitsha, says that before she joined Spoon Money it was extremely difficult to access credit to grow her business. The Spoon team onboarded her even though she had been blacklisted. “I am grateful for Spoon Money’s belief in me and my business’s potential to grow. I now run a thriving spaza shop, and regularly share the details of my journey with other ladies who require support to take their businesses to higher heights,” she says.

Based on the principle of a group loan, where every member is responsible for its repayment, Spoon Money’s participants are able to access credit for stock replenishment. Concludes Nicky, “At the very heart of our vision is thriving township success stories which can be used as role models for others in the community to achieve greater economic mobility and success.

We therefore want to make a strong appeal to female informal traders to contact us to embark on an enriching and empowering journey to take their businesses to an enterprise which benefits themselves, as well as the communities in which they operate.”

For more information, or to sign up, Spoon Money can be contacted on info@ spoonmoney.com or 078 086 8765.

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HEALTH & SAFETY

www.spotongmag.co.za

SURFACE SAFETY TO STOP THE

SPREAD OF COVID-19 Burt Rodrigues, CEO of Biodx, shares insights into surface safety

T

he Education MEC for the Eastern Cape, Fundile Gade, recently ordered legal action against a company that supplied sanitisers to Makaula Senior Secondary School, where 204 pupils and staff tested positive for Covid-19. The company also supplied nine other schools in the district with a product that was found to be sub-standard, containing very low volumes of alcohol. The question is how many other products out there are similar to this?

Know what you’re getting There’s really only one question here – how careful were you when the coronavirus first hit and how careful are you right now? How effective are the products you’re using and how long will they actually last on the surfaces they’re applied to? And how long should they remain on the applied surface before you wipe them off? This could be anywhere you’re likely to touch - from doorknobs and light switches to chairs, remote controls and table surfaces. And in the case of schools, even more areas are included.

In the early days of the pandemic, supermarket shelves were cleared of anything that said ‘cleaning or disinfection’ on the label, with people frantic to rid their homes and offices of anything viral. Strong smells emanated from rooms, especially kitchens, which had been doused with disinfecting products. But how effective were these products?

One thing is for certain: we now know more than we did about the virus and surfaces than at the beginning of this pandemic – although in terms of the virus' behaviour that’s not saying a lot.

At this point, unfortunately many places have sold out of authentic products. Those are products registered through the NRCS (national regulator for compulsory specifications) or the SABS (South African bureau of standards). Many of the products being sold now simply don’t come with this type of guarantee. What buyers and managers of companies and government departments must do is if the products they use have not been certified by these agencies, then at least the manufacturers must provide laboratory analysis demonstrating the product’s efficacy.

Terms you need to know • Decontaminate: Removal of pathogens from objects so they are safe to handle, use, or discard. It is an umbrella term for precleaning followed by sanitising, sterilising or disinfecting.

• Clean: Water, detergent (soap) and mechanical friction to reduce pathogen load, organic matter and dirt. Detergent does not kill pathogens.

• Sanitise: Lowering the number of pathogens to a safe level by either cleaning or lower-level disinfection.

• Disinfect: Type of decontamination using disinfectants to kill ~100% of pathogens. Easily deactivated by organic matter and dirt.

• Sterilise: Type of decontamination using heat and steam often via autoclaving.

how long the new coronavirus can live on surfaces surface

lifespan of Covid-19 virus

paper and tissue paper**

3 hours

copper*

4 hours

cardboard*

24 hours

wood**

2 days

cloth**

2 days

stainless steel*

2-3 days

polypropylene plastic*

3 days

glass**

4 days

paper money**

4 days

outside of surgical mask**

7 days

* at 21°C to 23°C (69.8°F to 73.4°F) and 40% relative humidity

**at between 21°C and 22°C (71°F) and 65% relative humidity

source: New England Journal of Medicine*; The Lancet Microbe**

© biodx 2020 | E info@biodx.co.za | T +27 (0)11 608 0732 | W biodx.co/coronavirus

HEALTH & SAFETY

Issue 34

“There is no evidence they are effective in reducing the spread of Covid-19.

Chemicals used in sanitising tunnels could cause skin, eye or respiratory irritation or damage.”

The routine cleaning and disinfection of surfaces is recommended for lowering the spread of Covid-19.

Clean first (to reduce pathogen load, organic matter and dirt), then disinfect (to kill remaining pathogens). Routine cleaning of hands (with soap and water) and sanitisation (in the absence of soap and water). We know from various world scientific and health organisations that each surface has a different reaction to the virus in terms of how long it can live.

If your local shop doesn’t have approved disinfectants, what should you use?

• • • • • •

Use 70-90% ethanol (or other types of alcohol e.g. isopropyl alcohol Use chlorine solution (sodium/calcium hypochlorite, such as bleach (Jik) 0.1% (1000 ppm) for general environmental disinfection 0.5% (5000 ppm) for blood and bodily fluid spills Hydrogen peroxide at ≥ 0.5% Contact time for above disinfectants: 1 minute. Contact time is the time for the disinfectant to be in contact with surface in order to kill pathogens • Type of disinfectant will be determined by type of surface to be cleaned (contact manufacturer if unsure)

relentlessly enabling a better world

making your plan to clean and disinfect

cleaning with soap and water removes germs, dirt & impurities from surfaces.

It lowers the risk of spreading infection.

“This is backed up by several world bodies. The US's CDC (Centers for Disease Control) says it doesn't recommend the use of sanitising tunnels. "There is no evidence they are effective in reducing the spread of Covid-19. Chemicals used in sanitising tunnels could cause skin, eye or respiratory irritation or damage."

“The WHO (World Health Organisation) comments that "spraying of individuals with disinfectants (such as in a tunnel, cabinet or chamber) is not recommended under any circumstances. This practice could be physically and psychologically harmful and would not reduce an infected person’s ability to spread the virus through droplets or contact. As they start speaking, coughing or sneezing they can still spread the virus."

Most disinfectants are approved based on their application to surfaces by wiping and not based on their application onto individuals by spraying. The department of health, WHO, CDC, and other bodies also don’t recommend fogging. They do recommend deep cleaning via wiping disinfectant on surfaces after thorough cleaning.

Disinfecting kills germs on surfaces. By killing germs on surfaces after cleaning, it can lower the risk of spreading infection.

is the area indoors?

yes it is an indoor area.

no maintain existing cleaning practices. Coronaviruses naturally die in hours to days typically indoor and outdoor environments. Viruses are killed more quickly by warmer temperatures and sunlight.

has the area been occupied within the last 7 days?

yes yes, the area has been occupied within the last 7 days.

Cleaning myths and harmful methods “As this invasive virus doubles and triples in daily cases and deaths, there have been various commercial entities jumping on the bandwagon to introduce different ways to keep people and surfaces clean and disinfected.

One of these has been the disinfection spray tunnels/booths which many schools/companies/mines have installed for people to pass through before entering their premises." Professor Salim Abdool Karim, chair of the ministerial advisory committee on Covid-19, says of these, “Human spraying is harmful with almost no benefit.”

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no the area has been unoccupied within the last 7 days.

The area will need only routine cleaning.

is it a frequently touch surface or object?

yes yes, it is a frequently touched surface or object.

no thoroughly clean these materials. Consider setting a schedule for routine cleaning and disinfection, as appropriate.

what type of material is the surface or object? hard and non-porous materials like glass, metal or plastic visibly dirty surfaces should be cleaned prior to disinfection.

Consult EPA’s list of disinfectants for use against COVID-19, specifically for use on hard, non-porous surfaces and for your specific application need.

More frequent cleaning and disinfection is necessary to reduce exposure.

soft and porous materials like carpet, rugs, or material in seating areas thoroughly clean or launder materials. Consider removing soft and porous materials in high traffic areas. Disinfect materials if appropriate products are available.

© biodx 2020 | E info@biodx.co.za | T +27 (0)11 608 0732 | W biodx.co/coronavirus

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COVID RELIEF

www.spotongmag.co.za

FUNDING AND SUPPORT FOR YOUR SME Find out where to access Covid-19 relief

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (IDC) MCEP (MANUFACTURING COMPETITIVENESS ENHANCEMENT PROGRAMME) COVID-19 PROGRAMME Target market Companies that manufacture and provide essential supplies.

Type of support

Eligibility

• MCEP funding can be stand-alone or blended with IDC. • Limited to R3-million per applicant in total.

• Priced at a fixed rate of 2.5% per annum.

• Maximum term is 48 months, including moratorium.

• First drawdown must occur within one month of approval date.

• Raising and commitment fees are excluded.

• All other standard fees apply.

• Companies that manufacture and provide essential supplies and have been in existence for more than one year.

• Valid contract/purchase order or letter of intent.

• Companies with BBBEE Level 4 status will be encouraged.

IDC COVID-19 ESSENTIAL SUPPLIES INTERVENTION Target market All businesses that have the capacity to acquire and/or manufacture products needed to treat, curtail and combat the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Type of support • Short-term loan for once-off contract or import funding.

• Revolving credit facility.

• Guarantees to banks for banking facilities, imports, ordering requirements.

• Term to be limited to a maximum of three months for all facilities.

How to apply

• IDC loan and trade finance facilities: Prime plus 1%.

Submit documents to callcentre@idc.co.za

• MCEO loan facilities: 2.5% per annum.

• Guarantees: 2% per annum.

COVID RELIEF

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RESTRUCTURING OF SMALL ENTERPRISE FINANCE AGENCY (SEFA) FUNDED SMMES Administered by the department of small business development, Seda and Sefa

Target market Sefa-funded SMMEs.

Type of support

BUSINESS GROWTH RESILIENCE FACILITY Target market Businesses taking advantage of supply opportunities resulting from the Covid-19 pandemic.

Type of support

Eligibility • Companies that have a track record of manufacturing comparable products.

• In the case of imports and trade finance the lack or insufficiency of local manufacturing should be confirmed and capacity and experience to import at the required scale should be demonstrated.

• Should be an accredited supplier.

• Should demonstrate profitability as per historical financial statements.

• The intention should not be profiteering – the mark-up should be reasonable.

• Contract or purchase order with either the South African government or a strong customer for essential supplies.

• In the absence of a contract or orders, a corporate guarantee from a company with investment grade may be considered.

• Geographic focus to be South Africa and SACU. • Exports are allowed if it forms part of a bigger contract for manufacturing, but an excess portion of products is exported.

How to apply Contact the IDC on 0860 693 888 or send an email to covid@idc.co.za for more details.

Visit the website www.idc.co.za

Production or supply of healthcare and related products that will be used to combat the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic. Local production, manufacturing or supply of various products that will be required by the country emanating from a shortage due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Eligibility • Businesses geared to take advantage of supply opportunities resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic or shortage of goods in the local market.

• Company or business must be 100% owned by South African citizens.

• Company must be 51% black-owned.

• 70% of employees must be South Africans.

• Priority will be given to businesses owned by women, youth and people with disabilities.

• Be registered and compliant with SARS. • Be UIF-compliant.

• Payment moratorium/holiday • The maximum term of the facility is 6 months.

• Deferments of capital or both capital and interest. The interest accrued will not be capitalised to the loan facility over the proposed maximum six-month period.

• Debt restructuring: Potentially extended loan term, interest review and additional funding where required.

• Debt repayments will be sculpted to match the pattern of the cashflow.

• The additional funding will be offered at prime -5%.

Eligibility Sefa-funded SMMEs that are negatively affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

How to apply Enquiries to be directed info@sefa.org.za

OLD MUTUAL INSURE COVID SUPPORT PLAN – R50 MILLION FUND SIZE Target market R40-million to assist qualifying SMEs to remain solvent. R10-million for Old Mutual Insure’s own suppliers and service providers impacted

by Covid-19, which will be assisted to sustain operations.

Type of support Interest-free loans will be granted to qualifying businesses and will be administered by the Old Mutual Masisizane Fund in partnership with Old Mutual Insure.

How to apply

Eligibility

Submit funding application with registration number and supporting documents to the dedicated Sefa email address: info@sefa.org.za

Not specified yet.

How to apply Visit the Old Mutual Website at https://www.oldmutual.co.za/covid-19

GIVING FOR HOPE – WILLOWTON GROUP (R85-MILLION) AL BARAKA BANK (R10-MILLION) SA MUSLIM CHARITABLE TRUST (R5-MILLION) Target market Funding for small, medium and microenterprises (SMMEs) to prevent job losses during the difficult times that lie ahead.

Type of support The foundation will provide SMMEs with interest, profit and admin cost-free loans for two years, with repayments commencing after the first year, in 12 monthly instalments.

Loans will: • Be over 24 months • Be 0% interest-free • Have no admin or profit added.

Repayments will: • Commence from month 13, following the loan grant

YOUTH BUSINESS RELIEF FUND An initiative of the Youth Chamber of Commerce and Industry South Africa.

Target market YCCISA has introduced this relief fund to assist young people with businesses that are affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Type of support The fund will assist youth entrepreneurs with operational costs, paying labour costs, rental, etc.

Eligibility • • • •

Be a South African citizen.

Be between 18 and 35 years of age.

Be an existing business.

Business categories: All youth businesses, but mostly informal traders, who are not included in other rescuing funding methods put in place by government.

How to apply Applications should be forwarded to applications@ youthbusinessfund.co.za. For detailed information on the fund and further document requirements, visit: www.youthbusinessfund.co.za

SOLIDARITY FUND

• Be 12-monthly instalments in year two.

R2-billion fund size (open to donations)

Eligibility

Target market

• Restricted to socially responsible (Shar’iah-compliant) SMMEs.

Healthcare system. Households and communities.

SMMEs to sustain their employees through the economic shutdown.

• Annual turnover of qualifying SMMEs to be less than R20-million per year.

• Minimum number of employees at the SMME at the time of application is five.

• Loan currently limited to R1-million per applicant.

• Open to all registered South African businesses that operate in South Africa.

• Security will be required for each loan applicant.

• Successful loan applicants will be required to open an account with Al Baraka Bank, free of any charges, except cash deposit fees.

How to apply • Applications will be evaluated on a caseby-case basis.

• For more information and applications: https://givingforhope.co.za/apply-forfunding/

Type of support Designed to be an umbrella platform for contributing to the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic and is aimed at three key focus areas: • Health response • Solidarity campaign • Humanitarian effort

Eligibility Information to be obtained by contacting their call centre on 0860 001 001 or visiting the website https://www.solidarityfund.co.za/.

How to apply The Solidarity Fund can be contacted via: 0860 001 001 or visiting their website https://www.solidarityfund.co.za/ The Solidarity Fund would be used for assistance where it was most needed (and though they will be included) and will not be specifically earmarked for SMEs.

COVID-19 BUSINESS RESCUE ASSISTANCE (COBRA) Administered by consortium: Schindlers Attorneys, IQBusiness, Engaged Business Turnaround

Target market Pro bono service to South African businesses in distress to coordinate bank, government and stakeholder support through a structured business rescue process.

Type of support This hub helps SMEs to understand the following: • What business turnaround and rescue entails • What it could do for the business • How it will affect the ownership structure of the business • How the process unfolds • What negotiation tools are at their disposal • How to access post-commencement financing • What legalities are involved, and a myriad other issues.

Eligibility Any distressed business has access to free daily (small group) and weekly (large group) webinars to share information/ guide business leaders. The COBRA War Room provides business support to avoid business rescue (pro bono or discounted fees).

How to apply Contact: info@cobra.org.za and visit their website at www.cobra.org.za.