Less than 24 hours after President Ramaphosa’s impassioned plea for all South Africans to unite in the battle against the devastating coronavirus, leading water brand aQuellé has donated R500 000 to boost the newly established Solidarity Fund.

The independent fund will focus on combating and tracking the deadly virus, caring for the sick and supporting those whose lives are disrupted. Administered through the private sector, it will complement the work already being done by government.

Said aQuellé director Michael Ngubane: “The Covid-19 pandemic is a definitive “Thuma Mina” moment for South Africa. We love our country and its people and as a brand we are answering that call.”

“It’s a challenging time where we are called to be united, committed and courageous and we trust that our contribution is a start and will create ripples of change,” he said.

“Let us all join together with our president in the prayer for our country, Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika”.

aQuellé is committed to the uninterrupted supply of water to retailers during the lockdown, while ensuring full compliance with new measures. The company has done extensive community outreach regarding Covid-19, including providing sanitisation materials. In addition to stringent hygiene protocols at its two bottling plants, it continues to conduct daily health screenings to keep its dedicated employees safe.