“We were approached by the health authorities in the province who want to set up a mass vaccination site. We immediately jumped at the opportunity to get involved in this important effort as we all have to help to get this pandemic under control,” Farouk tells Dealerfloor.

Farouk says Speedy is providing the infrastructure that includes tables, chairs, computers, power-outlets and electricity, Wi-Fi, secure parking and security with an estimated value so far of around R500 000.

“We also provided the premises for the site in the Jade Square Building on the corner of Margeretha Prinsloo and OR Tambo roads in the centre of Klerksdorp. The atrium in the centre of the building is ideal for the purpose of mass vaccinations and lends itself to accommodate up to 2 000 vaccinations a day. The health authorities will provide the vaccines and the medical and admin staff for the site,” Farouk says.

The vaccination will kick off today (Thursday, 5 August) and will initially run for three months. He says the idea is to set it up long enough for everyone to get their two jabs at this site, but only time will tell so it could stay operational for longer.

“We have to tackle this pandemic head-on to keep our people, our city and our country healthy so that the economy can recover and life can be normalised. I firmly believe, and it is a part of my religion, that if you do something, you must do it with a good heart and God will know,” Farouk concluded.