TCM receives generous donation for rally

LYDENBURG – “What this means to me is safety and security.”

These were the words of the executive mayor of Thaba Chweu Municipality, Mr Michael Ncongwane on Monday when he received a donation of emergency equipment worth R100 000 from Sasol.

It comprised a variety of safety equipment such as reflective jackets, bulletproof vests, cones, gazebos, rechargeable torches, headlamps and a concertina barrier.

Sasol said this formed part of the company’s commitment to give back to the communities in which the annual Sasol Rally was hosted.

Sasol Oil stakeholder relations manager, Ms Zimbini Zwane, said the company elected to assist the Thaba Chweu Municipality as it did not have its own emergency equipment. “Emergency equipment had to be hired from other municipalities leading up to the Sasol Rally. We feel strongly that Thaba Chweu should have its own equipment to conduct emergency and disaster management activities.”

“This is a highly appreciated donation to Thaba Chweu Municipality from Sasol. It really goes beyond our expectation and was desperately needed. Not only will it serve on emergencies but will save lives for generations to come,” said Ncongwane.

He said that a mutual relationship of give and take existed between the two parties. “In Zulu we have a saying that goes ‘hepa buya’. Many lives will be saved. May God bless you. We look forward to our relationship with you.”

The Sasol Rally, which takes place in Mpumalanga every year in April, is an eagerly anticipated event on the motorsport calendar. It forms part of the South African Rally Championship and attracts over 19000 spectators annually. This year, the rally will take place from April 10 to 12.

Zwane said Mpumalanga had been the destination of the rally for the past 22 years. “This is why we feel it is so important to give back to the communities that welcome us. Every year we identify various corporate social responsibility initiatives with a view of making a positive contribution to these communities.”

In April 2013 Sasol concluded a R600 000 community investment programme in Sabie and the surrounding areas that saw the company – in partnership with York Timbers – build permanent shelters for informal traders and refurbish 11 classrooms and four ablution facilities, administration offices and a kitchen at two schools, Memezile High School and Graskop Primary School.