Alcohol industry pledges thousands of litres for sanitizers
Three of South Africa's leading alcohol manufactures, and suppliers have pledged to donate at least 40 000 litres of 96% pure alcohol to produce much needed hand sanitizers.
The South African Liquor Brandowners Association (SALBA), Beer Association of South Africa (BASA) and wine representatives Vinpro have joined forces in a bid to curb the rising number of COVID-19 infections in the country.
The country's latest number of infections stands at 554.
Government has urged nationals to maintain good hygiene during this pandemic, as a measure to limit contraction of the deadly virus which has claimed over 16 000 lives and infected 360 00 people globally.
The World Health Organisation says one preventative method is to thoroughly wash your hands with an alcohol-based hand wash or apply an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Since the outbreak in South Africa, these products have been flying off the shelves in stores.
In a joint statement issued by SALBA, BASA and Vinpro; the businesses say they have recognised a severe shortage of pure alcohol to produce these products.
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"Local pure alcohol producers have agreed to make at least 40 000 litres of 96% pure alcohol available to help meet the demand for production of alcohol-based sanitisers which are desperately needed in hospitals and households."
"We strongly believe that through informed, decisive leadership, and collaboration across sectors, that we will be able to turnaround the spread and the impact of COVID-19 in our country. We are always committed to responsible commercial conduct, but more especially now when our country needs us most."
