There are more than 220 000 non-profit organisations (NPOs) registered with the Department of Social Development, and many are at the coalface of the Covid-19 response as they provide relief services, including food, water and medical supplies, to millions of vulnerable citizens. With these NPOs dependent on funding and donations to bolster their operations, a significant challenge lies ahead, particularly amidst a struggling economy. Many NPOs are experiencing or anticipating funding cuts, even as demand for their assistance increases.
Although much has been said about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown on the corporate sector, some believe very little attention has been given to non-profit organisations. The increasing need for aid has become evident as the lockdown drags on. However, with businesses and households now experiencing tremendous hardship, very little funding and support is being made towards organisations which rely primarily on donations.
During the ongoing pandemic, civil society is facing several constraints on its ability to carry out its work, as a result of lockdown, distancing, and quarantine measures. Despite these challenges, bottom-up accountability approaches are crucial to ensuring funds for the pandemic reach their intended destination. NGOs, donors, and multilaterals can support such approaches by drawing on several examples of online civic engagement.
During times of crisis it can be very difficult to gain momentum and participants for a cause, as media and public orientation are focused on the emergency. Methods for reaching out have also moved online, which may reduce the potential for broader engagement.
Donations and funding are the lifeblood of non-profits. But as the economy suffers, so do they. Liv Lanseria, which provides food, education and support to thousands of children in impoverished communities, has had to limit its services due to a lack of resources as donor fatigue sets in. The organisation’s Jay Strydom said support had declined since the early days of the lockdown.
“The cash injections have diminished. We have some loyal people who continue to give but with the uncertainty, many cannot.”
Strydom stresses now more than ever, South Africans must continue to support NPOs.
Click here for the full article.
[South Africa is hurting badly]
Remgro released its financial results for the year ended 30 June 2020, which shows the devastation of the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown on the company.
Total headline earnings per share were down by 61.3% and headline earnings per share from continuing operations declined by 68.7%.
With a diverse portfolio of companies, Remgro is in a good position to assess the impact of the lockdown on the South African economy.
Remgro said in a press statement the pandemic and lockdown “have brought desperation and devastation upon millions”.
“In South Africa, lives and livelihoods have been lost, with household finances decimated and many going hungry in large parts of the country,” it said.
In its results presentation, Remgro highlighted that the initial level 5 lockdown brought the local economy to a near standstill.
The ban on alcohol and closure of restaurants were two examples of where entire industries were prohibited from operating.
Click here for the full article.
Also, remember to follow our updates from NGO Pulse on Twitter and Facebook
We remind you to consider using our NGO Pulse Premium Advertising Service in support of your communication and outreach activities. This highly popular and successful service integrates all SANGONeT's advertising and communication channels into a single suite of services.
Click here for more information
