Global pharmaceuticals firm Cipla has relaunched its operations in KwaZulu-Natal, a month after its premises were burnt to ashes during the devastating civil unrest.
The reopening was presided over by KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikalala, who said the riots had threatened the supply of critical medication, while creating a health scare for the country.
“We are delighted to join Cipla as it announces to the people of KwaZulu-Natal, our country and the world, that it stands ready again to do what it knows to do best – producing life-saving medicines and making a difference in people’s lives.
Zikalala said that, as a patriotic business, Cipla has added an important voice in demonstrating its confidence in the KwaZulu-Natal economy.
“As the KwaZulu-Natal government, we wish to [assure] Cipla and all the companies that are resolute to rise and rebuild this beautiful province with us, that we will actively support your efforts of opening and growing your businesses," he commented.
Through the KwaZulu-Natal Social Cohesion and Moral Regeneration Council, Zikalala said, work was being done to engender lasting peace in the province. He noted that the focus was on developing a model citizen, who would be averse to violence and destruction.
“We are making it our generational mission to root out the culture of violence that has been transmitted from one generation to the next, given our long history of violent conflict and trauma,” Zikalala said.
The Premier commended Cipla for devising plans to ensure that, while the manufacturing plant in Durban was closed, it was able to work with its partners and distribution centres to ensure there was continuity in the supply of life-saving medicines.