Absa Group scales up COVID-19 community support The Group employs just over 38 000 people across Africa, with an extensive retail network that reaches into thousands of communities across the continent. This placed an enormous responsibility on them to provide inspirational leadership and support during these uncertain times and their response reflected their commitment to protect lives and livelihoods. In line with broader global and local efforts to assist employees, customers and communities impacted by COVID-19, Absa Group undertook a number of humanitarian, health and community support initiatives, focusing on the following three areas: Purpose in action The bank was recently awarded the Euromoney 2020 Excellence in Leadership in Africa Award for their integrated COVID-19 response. The Award looked at what corporates in the banking industry have done for their employees, clients, communities, industry and economies in Africa.