Auto and General Celebrates Mandela Month with Community Support

Although the 18th is the official day, we, as South Africans, usually take the month to honour Nelson Mandela. In the spirit of all he did for us, we continue to give back to those who are less fortunate. While the world was in the throes of a global pandemic, South Africa truly came together to do just that. It’s safe to say that his legacy lives on.

Here are a few of the initiatives we contributed to during  Mandela Month in 2020, a year marked by unprecedented times. 

Auto and General's R320 Million Covid-19 Relief Fund

We responded to the President’s call to unite in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic with a pledge of R320 million. This multi-faceted contribution addressed urgent and diverse challenges and needs across the country during a perilous time.

• R50 million was donated to the National Solidarity Fund.

• R200 million was used to support feeding schemes in our neighbouring communities.

• R70 million was allocated to support small businesses.

Supporting Food Security in Diepsloot During Mandela Month

Auto and General launched the Food Security Programme in Diepsloot in 2014. During lockdown, the programme supported 18 vegetable gardens and two seedling nurseries, providing nutritious meals to over 1,145 children daily, with a further 2,230 Diepsloot residents benefiting indirectly.

To meet increased needs during the pandemic, seedling production increased, and a new distribution plan was implemented. Residents were able to collect fresh produce from selected creches, with strict hygiene and social-distancing protocols in place.

Helping Small Businesses and Local Communities

We understood the challenges businesses were facing during the pandemic, and we were committed to doing our part. We established a R70 million relief fund to help small businesses weather the trying times, including those in our supply chain. Over 2,100 SMEs were identified to receive support during the COVID-19 crisis.

Continuing Mandela’s Legacy Through Corporate Social Investment

It was a privilege to help our communities in a time of crisis through our legacy and experience. By uplifting others, we honour everything Tata Mandela stood for. We continue to carry forward his legacy through our CSI initiatives every Nelson Mandela Month.