Brands breathe new life into Covid-19 fight

Staff ReporterOxygen therapy has been proven to be a life-saving tool that’s helped millions around the world cope with the stifling grip of Covid-19. However, the unsustainable cost or strained supply of bottled oxygen has seen many people and institutions gasping, as demand and scarcity saw opportunists gouge prices of equipment and supplies.One such machine, the oxygen concentrator, has proven hugely effective in treating patients in a more cost-effective and sustainable manner, while helping to decongest medical centres as patients at home care use the machines to keep their oxygen levels stable while they fight through the throes of this public health crisis.In an effort to assist those who cannot access these vital tools, Breathe Namibia, a private sector initiative by Elite Star Trading (EST) Africa, Agra, Woermann Brock & Co Inland and Woermann Brock Coastal, has - with the support of their suppliers and associated brands - acquired 150 oxygen concentrators, which will be made available to those in need across the country.“Due to the current Covid crisis and the immense strain that it is placing on the Namibian healthcare system, it is evident that there is a great and immediate need for assistance in combatting the pandemic. Agra LTD, Woermann Brock & Co Inland and Woermann Brock Coastal, in association with EST, have joined forces to create a support initiative called Breathe Namibia,” Carla Smit, junior brand manager at Agra said.“It is our hope that this initiative, which comes at a cost of roughly N$2.5 million, will assist community efforts in support of those suffering from Covid-19, especially and as a priority communities where formal systems are not easily accessible,” she added.More developed areas will be included in due course.Retail networks become lifelineEach and every Agra branch and Woermann Brock retail outlet nationwide will be supplied with an oxygen concentrator (five-litre or 10-litre) which they, in turn, will donate to a community initiative supporting the fight against Covid-19, or a medical facility in the area.“It is important to emphasise that the term 'community' refers to anybody in the specified area in need of oxygen. Every person in need of oxygen will benefit from this donation,” she explained.In towns where there are multiple Agra and Woermann Brock retail outlets, more than one machine will be made available, and the first 50 machines have already been earmarked for distribution within the next week.“We would like to sincerely thank our suppliers and associated brands who have selflessly donated towards this initiative. Through our upcoming Breathe Namibia advertising campaign, which will follow the progress as the machines are delivered and deployed in our communities, we intend to further shine a light on their generous contributions to this life-saving campaign,” Smit said.