Employees at Airtel Networks Zambia Plc have donated masks, sanitizers and hand washing basins to World Vision Zambia to support the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic in Chibombo District in Central Province.

The donation held at the World Vision Zambia National Office in Lusaka this morning, comprised of 1,000 reusable masks, 1 000 sanitizers and 100 wash basins with stands valued at K54 000 is part of Airtel’s “Changing Lives” program which aims to also partner with entities like World Vision Zambia whose humanitarian works across the Country also focuses on having ground activities such as sensitization of health workers and community leaders to fight the spread of the pandemic.

Speaking during the donation, Airtel Zambia Human Resource Director, Bwembya Barbara Chikonde said, “We are pleased to support World Vision in ensuring Zambia’s local communities are front and centre in the fight against COVID-19. The pandemic continues to wreak havoc all over the world on levels unprecedented and it is our duty as responsible corporate citizens to support critical efforts that protect livelihoods. We are proud as a company to acknowledge that these contributions by Airtel Zambia employees aim to support the health sector in the fight against the pandemic.’’

World Vision Zambia has been working with the government to combat the COVID-19 pandemic in Zambia by equipping health facilities, Isolation centres and building prevention measures across the country. Airtel Zambia has recognized World Vision Zambia’s response and therefore partnered to scale up their response in Chibombo District.

On hand to receive the donation, World Vision Zambia Board Chairman, Malcom Chabala represented by said fighting the COVID-19 pandemic requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders like Airtel Zambia. “Fighting this pandemic was not going to be an easy task. We need support from all sectors of the economy to see that all Zambian people are well protected. Today, we have received these donations from Airtel Zambia which we intend to distribute among our front-line workers and the most vulnerable communities in Chibombo District,” says Mr. Chabala. “We appreciate the support and thank the employees of Airtel Zambia for their contributions towards this important initiative. Together, we can stop the spread of COVID-19.’’