South Africa RIG Zanele Makhubo, CFIRM, AMBCI, Chair South Africa RIG Director, ERM and Business Continuity in the Public Sector Increase in mortality rate There has been a marked increase in the mortality rate in the country due to South Africa not having a proper risk management plan to deal with the impact of Covid-19 in saving lives and livelihoods. There is a need for collaboration to develop a proactive risk management plan agreed upon by all stakeholders from all disciplines including: Regulators, health, business, NGOs, community, civil society groups, labour stakeholders, disaster management, and business continuity. A fine balancing act between compliance with new Covid-19 regulations vs human factors and individual needs The State decisions versus individual decision has been compromised. There is a need to find a balancing act through collaborated efforts, education, training, awareness campaigns, and sharing of well-vetted information. Mental health and post-traumatic stress disorder There has and will be an increase in mental health and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder as many communities and families are trying to cope with losing loved ones, job loss, and income. Investment by the government and business in this area is critical. Other disaster events Drought, global warming and floods will continue in 2021 and beyond. The investment in a mitigation plans for such events is critical as we deal with Covid-19. Socio-economic factors An increase in unemployment harms the livelihood of all citizens. This negative impact on all aspects of capitals such as: Human, social, cultural, political, financial, built environment, and natural capital will continue in 2021.
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