Durban - The USA-based company, General Electric’s GE Foundation has pledged a donation of R1.6-million to support flood relief efforts in KwaZulu-Natal.
The foundation made the announcement on Thursday that it would donate through the food redistribution organisation, FoodForward South Africa (SA), in its efforts to assist vulnerable communities in the province.
Over 400 people lost their lives during the floods that swept through the province in April while many were displaced.
Making an announcement, the foundation which is in based in Boston, explained that it initiative was part of International Mandela Day and to highlight the plight of food security.
Linda Boff, GE Foundation President, said they were proud to once again work with FoodForward SA and help South African families continue the road to recovery after April’s devastating floods.
The foundation had deep roots in the African continent as its majority of employees are based in Africa, according to Nyimpini Mabunda, GE Southern Africa President.
“Addressing hunger is critical in the wake of the recent flooding and I’m proud that the GE family is supporting our country in this time of need.
FoodForward SA’s mission is to reduce hunger in South Africa by safely and cost-effectively securing quality food, and this grant funding will support the food procurement efforts and preparation needed for the impacted area,” said Mabunda.
In 2021, the GE Foundation donated US$100 000 to provide immediate relief to South Africa’s communities experiencing food insecurity due to the ongoing economic and social challenges caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Andy Du Plessis, Managing Director at FoodForward SA, said the organisation was honoured to receive the grant, which would help address the immediate need for hunger relief in the province.
“Corporate and individual partners such as the GE Foundation are key for us to support cost-effective solutions to combat hunger in underserved communities and strengthen our efforts to provide impactful change,” said Du Plessis.
The GE’s Disaster and Humanitarian Relief programme also responds to major global disasters and humanitarian crises, drawing on GE’s people, technology, and other resources to reduce suffering and hasten recovery.
In 2021, the foundation’s philanthropic contribution to disaster relief totalled $2-million (R33.5-million), which continued to support the ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic and fund support for disaster and humanitarian crises worldwide.
Recently, GE and the GE Foundation donated US$4.5-million in medical equipment and humanitarian relief to support Ukraine and neighboring countries impacted by the war.
“GE remains committed to preparing for and responding to future natural disasters and humanitarian crises, diligently maximizing the impact of our financial, technological, and human resources,” reported the foundation.
SUNDAY TRIBUNE