There will be no government handouts to save struggling businesses through the third onslaught of Covid-19 in South Africa. Last night the country was shocked by another economic destroying move to level 4, with all social, political and religious gatherings being banned. These include restaurants, gyms, casino’s, theaters and many more.
What happened to the government business rescue funds?
During the first wave there were many government programs that businesses could apply for to receive state assistance, but unfortunately after many irregular tenders, a great deal of funds going missing and mismanagement of relief funds, South Africa just doesn’t have the means to help these struggling companies survive.
“If government is committed to not destroying the economy, then they have to meet companies halfway in order to save them. You can’t then say we don’t want to kill the economy and then you plead poverty at the same time. Money has to be found.” Bheki Ntshalintshali, Secretary-general of Cosatu. This is the sentiment shared by many South Africans, with no expectable excuses. South Africans are fed-up with all the looting of state funds and the money never reaching the intended parties.
As we have seen in the past Covid-19 waves, the economy will not be able to recover properly and many families will be left helpless, unable to keep up with the costs of basic living. Meaning that numerous South Africans will be places in the position of not being able to buy food or pay for a roof over their heads, and this is not because of their own doing, these people are being let down by a higher power that is supposed to protect the most vulnerable.
Hopefully the minister of finance will find funds somewhere to help these enterprises and their staff, as under current restrictions they are not able to function as they should. If you are in a position to assist these small businesses with a discounted package to create an online presence, please do so. A helping hand will go a long way in saving our Country.
