Part 2: COVID-19 Business Support Review

During this crisis what has been highlighted for most business owners is the access to resources and information available to assist with general, business and financial information. Whether you are a sole proprietor or registered business, no business owner can know it all and have the time to research the required information. We have all been bombarded with notifications, offers of assistance, some of which is applicable but most is not and having to navigate our way through in the quickest possible time without missing crucial information.
While we also don’t have all the answers, we are happy to share some of the research undertaken which may be of assistance to our Industry Partners and diving community.
We have investigated the different regions that cover our Industry Partners in order to provide some information on the government interventions specific to them.
While we also don’t have all the answers, we are happy to share some of the research undertaken which may be of assistance to our Industry Partners and diving community.
We have investigated the different regions that cover our Industry Partners in order to provide some information on the government interventions specific to them.
Mozambique
While the IMF and other international financial organisations have offered relief and assistance, it is not clear on how this will help the population at large. There does not appear to be any clear assistance to businesses or self-employed individuals in this region to access any government assistance.
We will continue to monitor this and provide updates as they arise
We will continue to monitor this and provide updates as they arise
Mauritius
The Mauritian Government has identified priority sectors for assistance. There are travel and tourism, export-orientated businesses and a few others.
The following
1. Self-Employed Assistance Scheme (SEAS)
This intervention is under the Revenue Authority and is only open to self-employed individuals NOT employees. The criteria are listed on their website and a link is provided for ease of reference.
The following
1. Self-Employed Assistance Scheme (SEAS)
This intervention is under the Revenue Authority and is only open to self-employed individuals NOT employees. The criteria are listed on their website and a link is provided for ease of reference.
2. Wage Assistance Scheme (GWAS)
This scheme covers all employees in the private sector however, seems to have only been applicable to March when the government announced a 2-week lockdown period. It is not known whether a retrospective application will be accepted.
This scheme covers all employees in the private sector however, seems to have only been applicable to March when the government announced a 2-week lockdown period. It is not known whether a retrospective application will be accepted.
3. The banking sector has offered various payment holidays regarding loan and bond repayments. These negotiations would be directly with the specific individuals bank.
Further general information is provided here.
Further general information is provided here.
Kenya
- The government has employed various urgent interventions in order to assist business and individuals.Tax on monthly personal income under KES24,000 will not be taxed.
- The maximum income tax rate will be reduced to 25%.
- Annual turnover tax will be reduced to 1% for turnover under KES5M.
- Reduction of resident corporate tax rates from 30% to 25%.
- The VAT rate will be reduced from 16% to 14% with effect 1 April 2020. This reduction also applies to commercial property rentals.
- No confirmation regarding the implementation of the reduction of tax rates could be found however, it appears that this will be effective from 1 March 2020.
- Banks will provide relief on personal loans based on individual circumstances.
No further information on assistance packages was available at this time.
Tanzania
There is currently no information available regarding government or financing initiatives available. It appears that the government has not employed any grants or assistance to industry within the country.
Madagascar
The Madagascar tax authority has announced the suspension of the bi-monthly CIT instalment payment and an extension to 30 June 2020 for reporting and payment obligations all deductions made on behalf of the State.
While the country is receiving aid from various sources, no specific packages currently available to business.
This may change in the short term and further information will follow as it becomes available.
While the country is receiving aid from various sources, no specific packages currently available to business.
This may change in the short term and further information will follow as it becomes available.
Comoros
There is currently no information available on any form of relief available in the Comoros.
Please note that no organisation or any link provided here is specifically endorsed by DAN Southern Africa and we take no responsibility for any information provided by these links.
Please note that no organisation or any link provided here is specifically endorsed by DAN Southern Africa and we take no responsibility for any information provided by these links.
Seychelles
In the midst of the pandemic the government Ministry of Tourism has stepped in to assist with measures in the industry. It is anticipated that the government will take over salaries in the private sector for a period of time to assist business.
The banking sector is assisting with relief schemes which include:
Private businesses who receive funding directly through tourism establishments with recognised payroll systems and sole traders who are registered with the SRC can submit claims for 3-months salaries.
Minimum wage assistance would be R5,804 and capped at R30,000 as per the Ministry of Finance assistance schemes. All information and documentation can be found on their website.
The banking sector is assisting with relief schemes which include:
- No interest or capital repayments for a period of 6 months or 3 months for individual
- Loans may be available at low interest rates. This will include a 6-month payment holiday on repayments and an extension of the repayment term to 3 years.
- To be eligible for assistance, all business and credit facilities must have been in good order before February 2020.
Private businesses who receive funding directly through tourism establishments with recognised payroll systems and sole traders who are registered with the SRC can submit claims for 3-months salaries.
Minimum wage assistance would be R5,804 and capped at R30,000 as per the Ministry of Finance assistance schemes. All information and documentation can be found on their website.
Acknowledgements
KPMG
ENSafrica
Bowmans
Deloittes
ENSafrica
Bowmans
Deloittes
Categories
2021
2020
January
February
Group Fitness at the PoolHow to Rescue a Distressed diver at the SurfaceHow to manage Near-DrowningNo Sit-ups no problem How to manage MalariaHow to manage Oxygen Deficiency (Hypoxia)What to do when confronted by a sharkHow to manage Scombroid PoisoningHow to perform a Deep Diver RescueHow to perform One-rescuer CPRHow to perform a Neurological Assessment
March
DAN’s Quick Guide to Properly Disinfecting Dive GearCOVID-19 : Prevention Recommendations for our Diving CommunityGermophobia? - Just give it a reasonable thoughtScuba Equipment care – Rinsing and cleaning diving equipmentCOVID-19 and DAN MembershipFurther limitations imposed on travels and considerations on diving activitiesDAN Membership COVID-19 FAQsLancet COVID-19 South African Testing SitesCOVID-19 No Panic Help GuideGetting Decompression Sickness while FreedivingDown in the DumpsCardiovascular Disease and DivingDelayed Off-GassingDiving after Dental surgeryDiving with Multiple MedicationsPygmy Seahorses: Life AquaticAfrica DustCOVID-19 Myth BustersScuba Units Are Not Suitable Substitutes for VentilatorsDisinfection of Scuba Equipment and COVID-19Physioball Stability Exercises
April
COVID-19 AdvisoryScuba Equipment Care - Drying & Storing Your GearTransporting Diving Lights & BatteriesHow to Pivot Your Message During a CrisisTourism Relief FundCOVID-19 Business Support ReviewDiving After COVID-19: What We Know TodayEUBS-ECHM Position Statement on Diving ActivitiesPart 2: COVID-19 Business Support ReviewPress Release
May
Diving in the Era of COVID-19Dive Operations and COVID-19: Prepping for ReturnCOVID-19 & Diving Activities: 10 Safety RecommendationsCOVID-19: Surface Survival TimesThe Philippines at its FinestThe Logistics of ExplorationThe Art of the Underwater SelfieShooter: Douglas SeifertFAQs Answered: Disinfecting Scuba EquipmentStock your First-Aid KitResearch and OutreachCovid-19 ResearchOut of the BlueEffects of Aspirin on DivingThe New Pointy end of DivingDiving and Hepatitis CCaissons, Compressed-Air work and Deep TunnellingPreparing to Dive in the New NormalNew Health Declaration Form Sample Addressing C-19 IssuesDiving After COVID 19: What Divers Need to Know
June
Travel Smarter: PRE-TRIP VACCINATIONSAttention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and DivingCOVID-19: Updated First Aid Training Recommendations From DANDiving with a Purpose in National Marine SanctuariesStay Positive Through the PandemicFor the Dive Operator: How to Protect Your Staff & ClientsStudying Deep reefs and Deep diversAsking the Right QuestionsLung squeeze under cold diving conditions
July
Dive DeprivationVolunteer Fish Surveys: Engage DiversDAN Member Profile: Mehgan Heaney-GrierTravel Smarter: Don’t Cancel, Reschedule InsteadDive Boat Fire SafetyRay of HopePartner ExercisesDiving at AltitudeAluminium ExposureHip FracturesAcoustic NeuromaGuidelines for Lifelong Medical Fitness to DiveNew Dive Medical Forms
August
Women in Diving: Lauren Arthur, Conservationist & Natural History Story TellerWomen in Diving: Dr Sara Andreotti White Shark ResearcherTiming ExerciseWomen in Diving: The Salty Wanderer, Charlie WarlandWomen in Diving: Beth Neale, Aqua soul of freedivingWomen in Diving: Diving and spearfishing Diva, Jean HattinghWomen in Diving: Zandile Ndhlovu, The Black Mermaid
September
October
Freediving For ScienceStep Exercises with CardioFluorescence Imaging help Identify Coral BleachingChildren and DivingThe Watchman device and divingScuba Diving and Factor V Leiden gene mutationNitrogen Narcosis at shallow depthsOil and Particulates: Safe levels in Breathing Air at depthDive Principles for Coping with COVID-19The Importance of a Predive Safety CheckTalya Davidoff: the 'Plattelandse Meisie' Freediver
2019
February
April
May
DAN Press ReleaseYour Dive Computer: Tips and tricks - PART 1Your Dive Computer: Tips and tricks - PART 2Aural HygieneDCS AheadHow Divers Can Help with coral conservationRed Tide and shellfish poisoningDiving after Kidney DonationDiving with hypertrophic cardiomyopathyEmergency Underwater Oxygen Recompression
June
July
September
October
November
Exercise drills with DowelsHeart-rate TrainingCultivating ConservationTRavel Smarter : Evaluating an unfamiliar Dive operatorChallenging the Frontiers of Decompression ResearchTravel Smarter: Plan for Medical EmergenciesWhen should I call my Doctor?DAN Student Medical Expense CoverageAdvice, Support and a LifelineWetsuits and heat stressDiving after Chiropractic adjustments
2018
April
Flying after pool diving FAQLung squeeze while freediving FAQDiving after Bariatric surgery FAQMarine injuries FAQVasovagal Syncope unpredictable FAQIncident report procedure FAQDiving after knee surgery FAQDiving when in RemissionDive with orbital Implant FAQInert gas washout FAQOxygen ears FAQPost Decompression sicknessChildren and diving. The real concerns.Diving after SurgeryPhysiology of Decompresssion sickness FAQDiving and regular exerciseGordon Hiles - I am an Underwater Cameraman and Film MakerScuba Air QualityBreath-hold diving. Part 3: The Science Bit!Compensation Legislation and the Recreational DiverCape Town DivingFive pro tips for capturing better images in cold waterThe Boat Left Without You: Now What?
May
When things go wrongEmergency Planning: Why Do We Need It?Breath-hold diving: Running on reserve -Part 5 Learning to RebreatheSweet Dreams: When Can I Resume Diving Post Anaesthesia?Investing in the future of reefsTo lie or not to lie?THE STORY OF A RASH AFTER A DIVEFirst Aid KitsTaravana: Fact or Falacy?
June
Oxygen Unit MaintenanceKnow Your Oxygen-Delivery Masks 1Know Your Oxygen-Delivery Masks 2Emergency Oxygen unitsInjuries due to exposure - HypothermiaInjuries due to exposure - Altitude sicknessInjuries due to Exposure - Dehydration and other concernsHow to plan for your dive tripThe Future of Dive MedicinePlastic is Killing our ocean
September
Return to DivingDiagnoses: Pulmonary blebSide effects of Rectogesic ointmentDiving with ChemotherapyReplacing dive computers and BCDsCustomize Your First-Aid KitPlan for medical emergenciesHow the dive Reflex protects the brain and heartDry suits and skin BendsAltitude sickness and DCSScuba Diving and Life Expectancy
2017
March
April
Incident Insight: TriageA Field Guide to Minor MishapsSnorkels: Pros & ConsTime & RecoveryMedication & Drug UseDiving with CancerNitrox FAQCOPD FAQHyperbaric Chamber FAQJet Lag FAQHydration FAQAnticoagulant Medication FAQFluid in the Ear FAQEye Surgery FAQElderly Divers FAQNitrogen FAQHealth Concerns FAQMotion Sickness FAQMicronuclei FAQ
June
August
2016
February
March
Breath-Hold Diving & ScubaReturn to Diving After DCITiming Exercise & DivingHot Tubs After DivingSubcutaneous EmphysemaIn-Water RecompressionDiving at AltitudeFlying After DivingDiving After FlyingThe Risks of Diabetes & DivingFlu-like Symptoms Following a DiveHand & Foot EdemaFrontal HeadachesBladder DiscomfortLatex AllergiesRemember to BreatheProper Position for Emergency CareAches & PainsCell Phones While DrivingSurfers Ear Ear Ventilation TubesDealing with Ear ProblemsDiving with Existing Ear InjuriesPerforated Ear DrumENT SurgeryUnpluggedCochlear ImplantsPortuguese Man-of-WarJellyfish StingsLionfish, Scorpionfish & Stonefish EnvenomationsStingray Envenomation Coral Cuts, Scrapes and RashesSpeeding & Driving Behaviour
June
Newsflash! Low Pressure Hose DeteriorationItching & rash go away & come back!7 Things we did not know about the oceanMigraine HeadacheAttention Deficit Disorder Cerebral Vascular AccidentEpilepsyCerebral PalsyHistory of SeizuresMultiple Sclerosis Head TraumaBreast Cancer & Fitness to Dive IssuesLocal Allergic ReactionsSea LiceHow ocean pollution affects humans Dive Fatality & Lobster Mini-Season StatisticsPregnancy & DivingReturn to Diving After Giving BirthBreast Implants & DivingMenstruation During Diving ActivitiesOral Birth ControlBreast FeedingPremenstrual SyndromeOsteoporosisThe Aftermath of Diving IncidentsCompensation Legislation & the Recreational DiverNoise-Induced Hearing LossLegal MattersThe Nature of Liability & DivingDAN Legal NetworkWaivers, Children & Solo DivingHealthy, but overweight!Taking Medication while Scuba DivingGetting Fit for the Dive SeasonBone Considerations in Young DiversAsthma and Scuba DivingHepatitisDiving with HyperglycemiaShoulder PainDiving After Spinal Back Surgery
August
Hazard Identification & Risk AssessmentCaring For Your People Caring For Your FacilitiesCaring For Your BusinessScuba Air Quality Part 1Scuba Air Quality Part 2Chamber Maintenance Part 1Chamber Maintenance Part 2The Aging Diver Propeller SafetyRelease The PressureDon't Get LostMore Water, Less Bubbles13 Ways to Run Out of Air & How Not To7 Mistakes Divers Make & How To Avoid ThemSafety Is In The AirHow Good Is Your Emergency Plan
2015
January
March