Barclays celebrates 'pamoja'

As part of its overall corporate social responsibility programme, Barclays Africa is celebrating 'pamoja', (the Swahili word for 'Together we can').

The event is being marked by all branches of Barclays Bank Africa across 12 countries, including Barclays Bank (Seychelles) Ltd which will commemorate 'pamoja' on Friday June 4.

A press communiqué from the company says the aim of the day is "to harness the passion of our employees around community involvement in order to promote a culture of volunteering."  All staff will on Friday wear a 'pamoja' T-shirt which identifies them as caring and exemplary corporate citizens.

It will also be an opportunity for them to sign-up and personally pledge their commitment to get involved in community initiatives.

The bank has announced that through its different employee community related schemes, it will provide the necessary incentives and encouragement for its staff to live the 'pamoja' spirit. 

As part of activities being organised, is a talk by the minister of Social Affairs and Employment, Mr Vincent Meriton about the importance of taking responsibility for the community in which we live. The talk will be held at Barclays Bank (Sey) main branch at the Independence Avenue and it will also see the participation of several non-governmental organisations (NGOs), that have been invited to talk to the staff about their needs and type of volunteering they are seeking. A Matching Scheme whereby the bank doubles any amount raised by Barclays employees through their voluntary activities in the community has also been initiated for the occasion.  In the spirit of 'pamoja', provisions have been made for staff to get two days off annually for any volunteering work they do.

A fundraising 'bring and buy' activity will be held at the bank to make the day more interesting.  Barclays will double the money raised and a draw will be held to decide which NGO will receive the donation.

According to the press communiqué, "enthusiasm amongst staff is high and the day will be a great opportunity to recruit volunteers, raise awareness, kick-start new initiatives and build partnerships across the community."

"The event highlights once again the commitment that Barclays has in contributing positively to communities in which we live and work.  It is our wish that we build further on our achievements in this respect" it adds.

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