Reiterating its support for Oman’s frontline health workers and their efforts to keep communities safe during the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, National Bank of Oman (NBO) announced the distribution of its RO 1 million relief initiative.

A portion of the donation has already been transferred to the Ministry of Health’s Endowment Fund. Meanwhile, the remaining funds will be used to purchase critical and life-saving equipment and supplies for Royal Hospital, Al Nahdha Hospital, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, and the Royal Oman Police Hospital, which treat the majority of COVID-19 cases.

“The way we’re seeing how our community has come together to fight this crisis is truly characteristic of the Omani people and residents. Family members, friends, neighbours and our customers are playing an important role in flattening the curve, whether it be through donations, or by simply staying home and observing social distancing. It is through such generosity and spirit that we will overcome these challenging times,” said Sayyid Wasfi bin Jamshid Al Said, Acting CEO of NBO.

“We are grateful to our healthcare workers and all of those on the frontlines who are working day in, day out, to keep us all safe and we will continue to lend our support whenever and wherever needed,” he added.

As the pandemic continues to escalate, sufficient equipment is even more crucial for both the treatment of patients and the protection of healthcare workers. Joining a nationwide call to action, the bank’s donation will assist with the provision of protective gear and medical equipment as healthcare services work to treat the virus and control its spread. They range from beds to ventilators for critical care patients, to masks that are vital to ensure the safety of doctors and nurses as they carry out their duties. NBO is also enabling customers to make donations to the cause through its mobile app and at ATMs.