SDI (Supplier Development Initiative) is an existing services-on-demand platform that aims to uplift micro-suppliers across multiple industries.

SDI says that micro-suppliers play a "much-needed role in ensuring the delivery of a multitude of critical services" and are required in ensuring that South Africa overcomes the Coronavirus — from both a medical and socio-economic perspective.

"These micro suppliers are experienced at working with technology and are able to play a much-needed role during these trying and difficult times," adds Ramaphosa.

The SDI FORCE was initially set up to focus on and assist the homeless in and around Johannesburg during the lockdown period. It aimed to do this by providing logistical support and food-packs, sanitisers and other essentials.

However, according to the initiative, it soon became apparent that it could, in fact, do more due to its access to and relationship with the micro suppliers and other top platforms. These include:
  • Loadit
  • Tradeway
  • Sweepsouth, and
  • Aweh Africa
"The value we have always recognised in these micro-suppliers has not gone unnoticed by government and we have now partnered with the National Institute for Communicable Diseases, the Department of Social Development and the City of Joburg in collaboration with the Gauteng MEC Panyaza Lesufi," says Ramaphosa. 

"The scope and focus of SDI FORCE has now been broadened to include the elderly and other groups of people with a view to assist in meeting their needs on a national basis during this lockdown period and beyond," adds Ramaphosa.

The team behind the initiative says that, in these times, we as a nation must accept the simple reality that we must do more, care more and never forget that we are after all one nation.

"If ever there was a time for us to stick together, to help others out, it is now. It is not a time to be inactive. While the virus has brought about significant physical constraints, it must not be allowed to constrain our humanity," Ramaphosa says.

"We are in uncertain times and everyone is anxious," says Brad Fisher, ADreach managing director and co-founder of SDI. "But as much as it's difficult to be quarantined in our homes, things are far worse for those whose livelihoods are already compromised."

"Waste collectors, robot traders and car guards play an integral role in our society and this lockdown is going to completely cut them off from their everyday source of income. We need to assist them. If we don't, they will not survive. It's that simple," adds Fisher.

"So how can you help? For the moment, we need to focus on the basics like food and hygiene. To this end, SDI FORCE and the ADreach Group have partnered with Unity Values, who will be managing an auditable online fundraising initiative, to purchase food and hygiene packs for those in need," says Fisher.

"All packs will be distributed daily throughout the national lockdown by government-approved distribution and logistics agents. Every R1 000 donated helps to feed a family for three weeks," Fisher says.

The ADreach Group (investor and stakeholder in SDI) has announced that it has pledged R50 000. It is now challenging other companies, and appealing to the public, to make further donations to this worthy cause.

Individuals are encouraged to make a pledge here.

"As the world deals with the devastating effects of COVID-19, we have to consider those South African citizens who may die from starvation, exposure and malnutrition. We can all play our part in helping our country through this pandemic; please support SDI FORCE and spread the word," concludes the team at SDI.

For more information, visit www.unityvalues.com