Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates put rivalry aside in joint fight against Covid-19

Two of South Africa's soccer giants, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, have put rivalries aside in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

With the country in lockdown and the Absa Premiership at a standstill, the two clubs, along with MultiChoice, announced on Wednesday afternoon their efforts to help beat Covid-19. 

These are centred on protecting those on the frontline of the fight by donating much-needed personal protective equipment to help stem the pandemic which to date, has claimed 34 lives and infected 2 506 people in South Africa.

Health Minister Zweli Mkhize, who was also present at the announcement, confirmed that the personal protective equipment included masks, gloves, goggles, shoe protectors and 4 000 testing kits.

A social media campaign by players from both clubs will aim to help raise awareness of the pandemic as well as encourage supporters to stay at home and adhere to lockdown and physical distancing rules.

At the press conference, MultiChoice group chairperson, Imtiaz Patel, said that it was important to support those in the frontline in the fight against Covid-19.

"We have teamed up with two of South Africa’s biggest and most loved soccer clubs, Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, to counter the spread of Covid-19 in the country. Together we will be donating personal protective equipment items to help combat the spread of the virus.

"Today is all about our frontline workers, who may be the only line that will help in curbing the spread of the virus and this is our way to let them know we are supportive of them," said Patel.

- Compiled by Sport24 staff

???@orlandopirates Chairman | Dr. Irvin Khoza?? @SuperSportBlitz Channel 200?????#StayAtHomeSaveLives ????#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/mKQGZWLdgk

— Orlando Pirates FC (@orlandopirates) April 15, 2020

Players from @KaizerChiefs @OrlandoPirates will embark on a?nationwide social media?public?campaign in a bid to raise awareness & encourage everyone to #StayAtHome & observe strict guidelines of personal hygiene to minimise the risk of getting infected.? #StopTheSpread

— MultiChoice Group (@MultiChoiceGRP) April 15, 2020

MultiChoice Group, @OrlandoPirates & @KaizerChiefs are forging a partnership with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Sport, Arts & Culture to distribute protective gear as this is a critical moment for our country. #StopTheSpread

— MultiChoice Group (@MultiChoiceGRP) April 15, 2020