Press Releases

MTN contributes to Red Cross efforts to support victims

MTN is pleased to announce that it has contributed over R2,1 million in cash and in kind to support the South African Red Cross Society (Red Cross) in their efforts to help those affected by the violent attacks on foreign nationals and some South Africans in parts of the country.

MTN has handed over a cheque for R1,5 million to the Red Cross and made an in kind contribution valued at over R670 000, including clothing and other items as well as airtime and sim cards for use by Red Cross volunteers. ZTE Corporation South Africa, the manufacturer and solution provider for wireless base stations, terminals and networking products and supplier to MTN, has contributed the handsets to be used by the volunteers.

During weekends, MTN employees have been voluntarily helping the Red Cross and they are continuously collecting food, clothing and other supplies for the displaced foreign nationals and others.

MTN Group President and CEO, Mr Phuthuma Nhleko, says: “As a South African company with operations in Africa and the Middle East, we are very concerned by the spate of violent attacks against foreign nationals. We wish to send our condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives in these attacks and express our sympathies to those who are affected. MTN has therefore aligned itself and engaged with the Red Cross to support their efforts to bring relief.”

Says ZTE’s Deputy CEO, Mr Tumi Magasa: “The recent events in which some foreign nationals and some South Africans have been attacked, displaced and/or lost their lives are unfortunate. To demonstrate our concern and show that we care, we decided to collaborate with MTN and the Red Cross in their efforts to assist those in need. We are proud to be part of this noble cause.” The Red Cross has been providing emergency relief to affected people since the first attacks against foreigners took place in Alexandra Township, Johannesburg, on 12 May 2008. The emergency relief items that the Red Cross is distributing include blankets, food, baby kits and kitchen sets. The Red Cross, which has reached over 20 000 beneficiaries since the start of the crisis, has become a lifeline for the displaced.

Incoming Secretary General of the Red Cross, Ms Mandisa Kalako-Williams said the Red Cross has been alleviating the suffering of victims made vulnerable by natural disasters, violence and internal displacement since its inception in 1896. “Our association with MTN will ensure that the role of the Red Cross Movement in disaster management (pre, during and post the disaster) is enhanced and strengthened, allowing us to serve our mandate of upholding human dignity irrespective of race, colour, creed or religion as prescribed by the seven fundamental principles of the Red Cross Movement,” said Kalako-Williams.

“We are proud of the support of individuals and companies, such as MTN, who care enough to make the link towards working together for humanity. Humanitarian interventions, such as the current situation with internally displaced foreign nationals, cannot succeed without your generosity,” Kalako-Williams concluded.