Sasol’s co-funding has enabled Ten MSMEs from the Sedibeng (Gauteng), Gert Sibande (Mpumalanga), and Fezile Dabi Districts (Free State Province) to be part of this green economy programme, which is aligned with Sasol’s commitment to driving inclusive sustainable growth and local economic development.  More information on the enterprises enrolled on the programme can be found here. 

Through WIG, participants gain in-demand skills and leadership tools from industry-leading experts in:

• Green Supply Chain Management
• Green Product Innovation & Development
• Green Construction & Waste Management Practices
• Project Management

To drive inclusivity, the programme has also been extended to male-led enterprises. They were selected for their commitment to advancing gender equity and mentoring women within their businesses and sectors.  Their inclusion reflects the belief that building a greener, more inclusive economy requires allies who are willing to share knowledge, resources, and opportunities.

WIG creates a space for women to lead, learn, and transform industries that have been male dominated. The initiative forms part of Project EMBRACE, which drives inclusive economic growth by strengthening Black-owned businesses in renewable energy, waste management, eco-innovation and green construction – backed by international partners through the IYBA-SEED initiative, funded by the EU and the governments of France, Germany, and Slovakia.

Well done to the Shared Value Management team for driving this business empowerment initiative.

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This groundbreaking initiative, launched at the Sasol ESD SME Sustainability Summit in November 2023, aims to provide beneficiaries with state-of-the-art, self-powered Mobile Business Centers, coupled with comprehensive business support to ensure the sustainable operation of their internet cafés.

Initiative description

Sasol launched an innovative Internet Café initiative in December 2023 to support township Small and Medium Enterprises in Embalenhle, Mpumalanga, promoting growth and development within local communities. Through strategic partnerships with ESD beneficiaries such as B Real Construction, Climaairt Effect, Kubyala ICT, and The Solar Power Café, Sasol provides tailored opportunities for sustainable success, including market and infrastructure access, resulting in a mobile containerised business centre. By providing sustainable business solutions to SMEs, Sasol fosters a positive impact on communities in line with SDG 9 (innovation and infrastructure).

The Secunda-based container will be used as an internet café, showcasing local businesses’ resilience and commitment to sustainable solutions. The container is fitted with a printing area (including printer), support desk, secure storage, Internet Café workstations, HVAC system, and solar power. It will also be branded to reflect the identity of the successful development beneficiary.

The internet cafe will provide economic empowerment and technological advancement for Embalenhle, symbolising the collective strength of SMEs and Sasol’s vision of building stronger communities and fostering innovation, setting the stage for a sustainable and inclusive business ecosystem, in line with SDG 7 (clean energy) and SDG 5 (gender equality).

Key interventions and impact areas

Market access. Platform provided for the internet café to reach a wider customer base and market access, to ensure sustainable growth and profitability.

Business guidance. Support the internet café to navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and build a solid foundation for long-term success.

Access to finance through purchase order (PO) funding. Securing financial support through PO funding enables SMEs to reach new customers and scale their operations effectively.

Infrastructure access for Township-based SMEs. Access to infrastructure such as the mobile business centre, creates a conducive environment for effective operations, fostering productivity and innovation within the community.

Outcome/Performance by ESD

Fostering collaboration. Amplifies Sasol’s impact and promotes beneficial change within the community, aligning with SDG 17 (partnerships). This showcases inclusive development amongst ESD beneficiaries, leveraging expertise and resources, fostering a stronger support network within the community.

Sustainable business operations. Business support services alongside mobile business centres are provided to ensure sustainable operation of township cafés. This enhances resilience of SMEs, enabling them to thrive in a competitive market environment. Sasol actively fosters job creation and promotes sustainable economic growth within the community, aligning with SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth).

Economic empowerment. Through sustainable mobile centres and business support, the initiative empowers SMEs for sustainable growth. This empowerment translates into increased economic opportunities and financial independence.

Capacity building and skill development. Utilising business guidance and support services, the initiative equips café owners with valuable skills to manage their businesses effectively.

The success of the Internet café initiative underscores the undeniable value of partnerships between corporates and SMEs in ESD endeavors. Through such strategic alliances, the power of small business development is harnessed to nurture SMEs, empowering them to make substantial contributions to our nation’s economic development. This initiative not only fosters the growth of individual enterprises but also cultivates a strong and inclusive business ecosystem in Embalenhle, paving the way for a prosperous and sustainable future.

Click here to see other articles about us Enabling Small Business.

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In a three-day pop-up market, Sasol recently collaborated with the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) where over 20 Kwazulu-Natal local entrepreneurs from various sectors came out to showcase their businesses.

The pop-up market took place on 3-5 March at the Boardwalk Inkwazi Mall under the theme: ‘Show Your Love for Local Brands’.

Sectors that participated in this pop-up market ranged from information and communications technology (ICT) services, manufacturing, agriculture, agro-processing, textile, clothing, health, wellness, as well as arts and crafts.

As a responsible citizen, and a firm believer in providing enabling solutions for small businesses to thrive, Sasol has developed its own programmes that nurture the growth of small enterprises. This is because small businesses are vital components to driving economic inclusion and stimulating job creation.

Teaming up with SEDA to develop small enterprises aligns with Sasol’s Enterprise and Supplier Development programme whose mandate is to identify, develop and sustain a pipeline of future-fit small and medium enterprises by enabling them to scale up into sustainable businesses.
The aim of the programme is to ensure the transformation of Sasol’s supply chain and apply responsible sourcing and procurement principles.

The SEDA pop-up market approach proves that thriving and sustainable Small and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) can be created through collaboration between the public and the private sector. SMMEs were severely impacted by the effects of the global Covid-19 pandemic which devastated the local economy and reduced spend by corporates and consumers.

Sasol and SEDA, together with the Department of Small Business Development agencies, the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) and the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA) will host similar pop-up markets in various areas throughout the year.

Previous pop-up markets have been held in Sasolburg (Free State), Springbok (Northern Cape) and Mahikeng in the North West province.

Click here to read more about Team Sasol’s initiatives for supporting small businesses.

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Remofilwe says it all started in 2018 when she constantly witnessed the challenges young girls in disadvantaged environments went through when it was that time of the month. Seeking a practical and sustainable solution to the situation, she decided to make this issue the major focus for her Master’s degree in Supply Chain Management.

She approached the North West Department of Education for schools and obtained permission to gather information about the availability of certain resources. One of the findings that emerged was a lack of sanitary towels.

Her belief that all good things work together for the greater good transpired in May 2021 when, after successfully completing the requisite criteria, Remofilwe was selected to be part of Sasol’s Ntsika entrepreneur development programme aimed at transitioning employees.  This proved to be a turning point in her journey to success.

“The Sasol Ntsika programme taught me a lot – from business planning to marketing and brand management. I am now also able to implement solutions and solve problems, which is what I needed as an entrepreneur with a start-up business.”

It was during this period that Remofilwe approached the North West education department with a proposal to supply of quality affordable sanitary towels to schools in districts. Her research had revealed that there was a significant big gap in the market for such a product. The task was to find a manufacturer that would be able to assist her produce such a product, ensuring that it adheres to stringent quality guidelines. Her persistence paid off when she partnered with such a producer. In less than six months, she has managed to supply more than 40 000 sanitary towels to 50 schools.

She is currently exploring the potential to do the manufacturing and distribution herself.

“My goal is to become a large-scale manufacturer of quality, affordable sanitary towels and possibly expand to other areas. I am excited to be working with my business coach to explore how we can grow my business even to outside the country’s borders in the longer term.”

Click here to see other Sasol in Society activities in South Africa.

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“As we progress our Future Sasol strategy, giving effect to a just transition is central to our decarbonisation pathways towards achieving our 2050 net zero ambitions,” said Charlotte Mokoena, Executive Vice President: Human Resources and Stakeholder Relations.

“We see the vision of Sasol’s just transition as a shared value proposition that will come to life through the inclusive transformation of our business, people and society. We recognise the socio-economic impact of this transition over time and have developed a portfolio of pilot initiatives and community resilience projects to foster inclusive and sustainable economic growth.”

The programmes under Sasol Bridge to Work are:

• Iphepe, which is aimed at establishing and growing the number of successful smallholder farmers, through integrated support systems;
• Community welding aimed at creating qualified welders who are equipped to meet the required skill level for new and existing projects in Mpumalanga and Free State;
• Handyman services to create jobs for unemployed youth and unskilled school handymen;
• Motor mechanics to produce certified Motor Mechanics, who will contribute to the motor industry and be positioned to enter the renewable energy powered vehicle industry;
• Business technology programme to assist youth in our communities achieve applied technology skills in order create scalable start-ups and sustainable digital SMMEs that are relevant to their community; and
• Community service programme where the unemployed will be mobilised to become active citizens of the country’s democracy, while earning an income and increasing their employability.

To implement these interventions, Sasol has partnered with the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA) in Mpumalanga, Buhle Farmers’ Academy, and the African Farmer’s Association of South Africa (AFASA). Additional partners include Afrox, Alternative Information and Development Centre (AIDC), Aurex, the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), Productivity SA, and South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), and the Gert Sibande TVET College.

“Our aspiration to transition to a lower carbon future cannot be achieved at the expense of our communities, which are already experiencing high levels of poverty, unemployment and inequality. If leveraged appropriately, we believe opportunities in a low carbon future can deliver a more inclusive, sustainable and thriving South Africa,” adds Mokoena.

Explaining the rationale behind Afrox’s partnership with Sasol, Corporate Social Investment Manager, Nemenita Mohabir, said over many years, the company has invested in the training of young welders and we are dedicated to encouraging our youth to take up this profession.

“We do this by joining with like-minded organisations like Sasol and Aurex to ensure the success of students at the Boitjhorisong Welding Training Centre.”

Added Aurex Constructors CEO Stuart Kent: “Aurex Constructors are on a mission to change the challenges faced by South Africans, by answering the need for skills development, secure facilities and essentials that will make a difference to people in the communities where we work. Identifying a scarcity of welding skills in the Sasolburg area resulted in an opportunity to partner with Sasol and Afrox and create the Boitjhorisong Welding Training Centre. Aurex trainers educate delegates on theoretical and practical exercises in structural and Argon (TIG) welding.”

Sasol will be embarking on a roadshow before the end of the year, visiting communities to raise awareness of these programmes and recruit interested individuals.

For more information about Sasol Bridge to Work and the opportunities available, people can visit: https://society.sasol.com/bridge-to-work/

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Executive Vice President: Human Resources and Stakeholder Relations at Sasol, Charlotte Mokoena, said the decision to confer Esperanza farm to DALRRD, under the auspices of a 99-year lease, is informed by Sasol’s vision of a just transition by growing shared value through the development of key economic growth sectors, such as agriculture.

“We see the vision of Sasol’s just transition as a shared value proposition that will come to life through the inclusive transformation of our business, people and society,” said Mokoena. “This is in line with our core value of care, which we demonstrate through caring deeply for our people, planet, and communities.”

Sasol acquired Esperanza farm in 1980 and used it mainly for the establishment of the Sasol Secunda factory site. The land was then used by the Esperanza Trust to promote vegetable and chicken farming by community members before being leased to the Govan Mbeki Municipality after the Trust dissolved. Part of it is currently used for agricultural and manufacturing activities.

Speaking at the handover, Minister Didiza said: She would like to congratulate Sasol for this programme. “What is important is the approach of this programme, you could have given these young people the piece of land and disappear, but you also trained them and gave them starter packs which are necessary skills they need”

The Minister also praised Sasol for being a responsible corporate citizen that is in touch with its community. Sasol is a corporate citizen that seeks to address challenges in their communities.

Sasol will continue to have access to the Esperanza farm to further accelerate its Iphepe Emerging Farmer Development Programme, which to date has benefitted more than 300 emerging farmers from the Gert Sibande District in Mpumalanga.

Last year, the programme produced 85 emerging farmers who received training at the Buhle Farmers’ Academy. A further 88 farmers are due to complete their training this year. These emerging farmers will be assisted with business starter kits, mentorship and market access to make their businesses grow and thrive.

Mokoena said Iphepe is part of Sasol’s Bridge to Work (BtW), which is a portfolio of programmes that aim to improve access to economic opportunities for the youth, women, and adults out of work in its fenceline communities in Mpumalnga, Free State, Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. This is by providing vocational training and skills development in the areas of agriculture, motor mechanics, welding, technology and digital development, among others.

“We had to reconfigure our portfolio of projects to focus on vocational training aligned to the needs and opportunities identified by our fenceline communities, social research and local government,” explained Mokoena. “These growth accelerator projects, housed under the Bridge to Work programme, will enable those we are targeting to access meaningful work opportunities that can be converted into small businesses through organised development opportunities.”

Other programmes under BtW include:

• Community welding aimed at creating qualified welders who are equipped to meet the required skill level for new and existing projects in Mpumalanga and Free State;
• Handyman services to create jobs for unemployed youth and unskilled school handymen;
• Motor mechanics to produce certified Motor Mechanics, who will contribute to the motor industry and be positioned to enter the renewable energy powered vehicle industry;
• Business technology programme to assist youth in our communities achieve applied technology skills in order create scalable start-ups and sustainable digital SMMEs that are relevant to their community; and
• Community service programme where the unemployed will be mobilised to become active citizens of the country’s democracy, while earning an income and increasing their employability. 

These will be implemented in partnership with Buhle Farmers’ Academy, Afrox, The Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC), Aurex, and the Gert Sibande TVET College. Other strategic partners are Productivity SA, the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA).

Sasol will be embarking on a roadshow before the end of the year, visiting communities to raise awareness of these programmes and recruit interested individuals.

For more information about BtW and the opportunities available, people can visit: https://society.sasol.com/bridge-to-work/

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Mashudu Ndou, Vice President and Head: Community and Corporate Affairs says, “Our intention as a brand is to be inclusive and relevant. We truly believe our contribution to the youth of South Africa has a rippling effect that lives on. Indeed Sasol is very honoured to have an opportunity to develop and empower the leaders of tomorrow. We continue to look out for impactful programmes that positively impact our people in the communities we operate.”

Improving Access to Opportunities through Youth Development Centres

Improving access to opportunities through resourcing of Youth Development Centres is one of the avenues Sasol is pursuing towards promoting economic participation amongst the youth. Sasol has invested R2. 5 million this financial year resourcing Youth Development Centres (YDC) in Mpumalanga. Eight of these centres are in Nkomazi Municipality and three in the Emalahleni Municipality. Some of the Youth Development Centres donated by Sasol are Kuyenzeka (YDC) in Klarinet and Sizimisele (YDC) located in Phola Township at Ogies in eMalahleni. Furthermore Sasol renovated Ezweni (YDC ) at KwaGuqa near Ezinambeni in Emalahleni. Sasol recognises that the Youth needs to take an active role in global economies, an objective that can be realised through access to information, technology and infrastructure where they reside. Youth deserves constructive spaces where employment programmes can thrive and they can be equipped with useful life and business skills to navigate job market. In the past five years Sasol has built 36 Youth Centres around Gert Sibande District.

Embalenhle Girls Electrical and Grass Cutting Project Keeping Secunda Clean

Thembi Khoza (33) is currently the Director of the Embalenhle Girls Electrical and Grass Cutting & Projects (Pty) Ltd established in 2016. The company employs 14 full-time employees and 16 non permanent employees. Due to Covid -19 the company had to downscale from 55 to 30 employees. Their main focus is landscaping, grass cutting, vegetation management, environmental rehabilitation and gardening services. Thembi’s company is one of the SMME that was equipped with business management skills as part of Sasol’s Enterprise Supplier Development (ESD) programme. Thembi said: “We received an interim business opportunity from Sasol Ikusasa, where we are currently cleaning Zone 6 and 7, Extension 22 and 23, Sunset Park, the Secunda Stadium, the Sasol Marathon Route, the Sasol Club and the Sasol Embalenhle hostel. We even clean some of Embalenhle schools on an ad hoc basis. We hope the business picks ups so we can bring back our colleagues we had to let go.”

Training SMME’s on SAP ARIBA platforms

When Nomalanga Makwe’s (35) employment contract came to an end she decided to start her own company, Mosholu Consulting Company. Her company was established in 2020 and provides training on SAP ARIBA, which allows suppliers and buyers to connect and do business on a single platform. Mosholu Consulting offers support on access application processes such as: Supplier Pre-Qualification, Supplier Information Management and presenting Online sourcing training session. Nomalanga was also offered an opportunity by the Sasol ESD programme to train SMME’s about the platform. “I have so much respect for entrepreneurs because it takes a lot to maintain and run a business. I would like to encourage young people and learners still at school to take their time when deciding to start a business and don’t rush there’s no race. Focus is probably more important than anything else. Also, there will never be a perfect time to start your business, start with the little that you have.” Says Nomalanga Makwe

320 Youth in Agriculture | Sasol Farmers Development Programme

Amos Mathebula (34) and Gugu Shange (31) are the proud owners of Too Fresh Produce Farm based in Morgezon, close to Ermelo, as part of the Lekwa Municipality. This duo is now supplying their fresh produce to the local Shoprite and other supermarkets in the Morgenzon area. Their business focuses on the production of cabbages, spinach, beetroot and jalapeno peppers. The turning point for them began in 2019 when they took part in Sasol’s Farmers Development Programme, an initiative implemented in partnership with Buhle Farmers Academy and African Farmers Association of South Africa (AFASA). Lindokuhle Sikhonde (26) is also an emerging farmer who graduated this year in poultry farming, she is based in Secunda. Lindokuhle is the proud owner of Ndalo-Enhle Poultry, established in 2019 she started with few hens and then sells the eggs to the community at a cheaper price. She says “When I saw the advert in the Secunda newspaper, the Ridge Times, calling emerging farmers to participate in Sasol’s Farmers Development Programme I grabbed the opportunity, applied and luckily I was selected. The programme did not just teach me how to grow a chicken from a day old chick, but it also taught me how to do marketing. I learned what the business of farming is, in order for my business to grow I need to be profitable. Sasol is very proud of this successful five year partnership that has empowered 320 farmers in various farming disciplines from the Gert Sibande Municipality. In the past three years Sasol has invested R3. 4 million in the programme.

Mabhodla Electrical Constructors | Youth in Construction

Mabhodla Electrical Constructors (MEC) is a construction company based in Secunda, established in 2016 by Robert Mbuyazi (34) who has years of experience in the construction
industry. The company focuses on large-and small-scale projects in Electrical, Control and
Instrumentation, Construction, Contracting and Maintenance Solutions. Robert says: “Through Sasol ESD Programme I was equipped with knowledge to manage my company’s financials, resources and projects more efficiently. The programme identified a gap in our
operations and we were supported with funding for tools and equipment and, safety and quality management systems.” Sasol has opened their doors to SMMEs who are part of the programme to utilise the ESD offices and amenities. This has provided a conducive space
to execute administrative duties. “My future goal is to expand the business across Mpumalanga Province and employ more people.” Currently Mabhodla Electrical constructors employs four full time employees and five part time employees.

WOMECH Mechanical Works Specialists

Twin sisters Dineo and Keneuwe Glomane are the proud owners of Womech Mechanical, an automobile repair and maintenance company dealing with major and minor repairs, engine and gearbox overhauls, diagnostic and electrical repairs, upholstery and vehicle accessories for all makes of automobiles. Dineo and Keneuwe both studied mechanical engineering at college. In 2017 the twins decided to open their own workshop in Secunda creating employment opportunities. Dineo says: “ The Sasol ESD programme assisted us with workshop equipment, marketing, branding and ensuring that management got entrepreneurial training. We also received costing, budgeting and business management training via different institutions.” The ESD programme assisted Womech with health and safety, financial systems suitable for their business and with a website. Keneuwe says, “Nothing comes easy in life, have a dream, see it, feel it and push to get it. Anything is possible if you put your mind to it. We see ourselves opening our own training centre assisting our community, we also see many more departments being opened in our workshop like a tyre and wheel alignment fitment centre, engineering workshop and panel beating workshop.”

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The Agri Seta accredited training focuses on four disciplines offering practical and theoretical training in Farm Business Management, Vegetable Production, Livestock Production and Poultry Production. The training consists out of two and a half months for livestock production and poultry production, and three months for vegetable production.

The vegetable production training covers land preparation and soil fertility, application of crop protection products, harvesting and marketing of products. While the poultry production covers brooding and post brooding management of poultry chicks, administer record keeping functions in poultry production, farm business management and business plan development and presentation. The livestock production training offers theoretical livestock management, animal healthcare practices, farm business management, business plan development and presentation.

R3. 4 million has been invested in the programme for the past three years by Sasol. The aim is to improve the livelihood of farmers in rural communities and enable them to run viable farming businesses while improving their chances of employability in the agriculture sector.

Mashudu Ndou, Head Community Affairs at Sasol Regional Operations and Asset Services (ROAS) said: “We started this programme focusing at the Govan Mbeki area only, but we have since incorporated the entire Gert Sibande District. The programme has been positioned to be sustainable and to deliver economic value to emerging farmers. I am glad that the stakeholders which we began this journey with five years ago are still here.  Together we have witnessed many success stories.”

With an uncomplicated entry criteria, this training programme is open to farmers and individuals who are actively involved in agriculture. Potential participants must have access to land, even if it’s just a small portion of land eg backyard farming. The next intake is scheduled to take place in August 2021, more details will be announced in local media and on social networks. Should you have any questions or want to know more about the programme, please phone the Buhle Academy on 087 803 0563.

Youth in Agriculture

Amos Mathebula (34) and Gugu Shange (31) are the proud owners of Too Fresh Produce Farm based in Morgenzon, close to Ermelo, as part of the Lekwa Municipality. This duo is now supplying to the local Shoprite and other supermarkets in the Morgenzon area with their fresh produce. Their business focuses on the production of cabbages, spinach, beetroot and jalapeno peppers.

The turning point for them began in 2019 when they took part in Sasol’s Farmers Development Programme, an initiative implemented in partnership with Buhle Farmers Academy and AFASA. Gugu says “the great thing about the initiative is that, the programme is holistically designed to develop a farmer’s skills from production to market and 95 percent of your time is spent practical, in the field.  Participants also learn that it’s not just about farming it’s about business.” Gugu is an ‘all-rounder’ farmer, who also received training in animal and poultry production from Sasol’s Farmers Development Programme. Amos accounts his success to broadening his network with people in the agricultural space, the training he acquired from Sasol’s Farmers Development Programme and the support he received from AFASA. Amos’ journey humbly began with cultivating his grandfather’s garden. He says his success has also attracted young people who are curious and interested in taking on farming.

Lindokuhle Sikhonde (26) is also an emerging farmer who graduated this year in poultry farming, she is based in Secunda. Lindokuhle is the proud owner of Ndalo-Enhle Poultry, established in 2019 she started with few hens and sells the eggs to the community at a cheaper price. She says “when I saw the advert in the Secunda newspaper, the Ridge Times, calling emerging farmers to participate in Sasol’s Farmers Development Programme I grabbed the opportunity, applied and luckily I was selected. The programme did not just teach me how to grow a chicken from a day old chick, but the programme taught me how to do marketing as well.  I learned what the business of farming is.  In order for my business to grow I need to be profitable. The goal now is to expand and employ people inform my community and supply to bigger markets. I am still in the beginning stages, but I am optimistic on what I want to achieve.”

Sasol is very proud of this successful five year partnership that has empowered 320 farmers in various farming disciplines from the Gert Sibande Municipality.

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Sasol Enterprise and Supplier Development launched their first-ever SME webinar series, titled Built to Last. The series, which will unfold over four chapters, kicked off with Chapter One: The Power to Survive on Tuesday, 4 May 2021. The two-day virtual event featured various speakers from diverse backgrounds who covered a range of curated topics aimed at sharing insights with SMEs on navigating the current economic climate and enabling business continuity through the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Built to Last opened with an address from Sasol Chief Procurement Officer Lebelo Lukhele, who shared the vision behind the web series. Day one included a presentation and panel discussion led by Mzoxolo Gulwa (Purplegrowth) with panellists, Phumzile Chifunyise (GreenNatives) and Kgomotso Lekola (BT Industrial) showcasing different strategic approaches and tools that SMEs can employ to respond to uncertainty. The second half of the day focused on topics relating to how SMEs can effectively position themselves to access opportunities and operate competitively in a digital era, with presentations from Mpopi Khupe, from Sasol’s strategic sourcing partner, Zevoli Growth Partners and renowned TV and Radio show host, Rams Mabote. A panel discussion on Digitally Enabling Small Businesses which featured MJ Khan (Sasol), Zamani Ngidi (AON), Loyiso Boyce (Clyrofor) and Shukri Cornelius, Blink Digital Technologies, closed off the programme of the day.

The second and final day of the event opened with a keynote address by transitioning banking executive and newly appointed CEO of Net1 UEPS Technologies Inc., Lincoln Mali. Mali shared several valuable insights on Leadership in Transition, which included a personal perspective on navigating this period of unprecedented change and uncertainty as a business leader. Brian Simelane then presented several Business Modelling tools SMEs can utilize in their business planning process, particularly in the “new normal” context.

Throughout the event, SMEs were encouraged to participate. The webinar received an overwhelmingly positive response relating to the relevant and helpful topics shared had been by the different speakers.

The webinar series continues in July 2021, with Chapter Two: Opportunity to Improve. This insightful series forms part of the ongoing Sasol ESD transformation journey to bring about meaningful change in our communities through small business development and continually inspiring SMEs to think beyond their current environment to build lasting and sustainable businesses.

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In August 2020, Sasol Enterprise and Supplier Development Sasolburg welcomed V Solutions, Climaart Effect Airconditioning, Mamali Engineering Services, Indaloyami Trading, Dikakapeng Group of Companies, Posta Investments Holdings, and Elior Industries to the newly launched Sasol Business Accelerator (SBA) programme. As part of the Global Entrepreneurship Week 2020, Sasol ESD hosted the SBA Programme Review and Connector sessions at the Sasol Business Incubator in Sasolburg. The seven SMMEs were given an opportunity to present on the journey there’ve undergone in the last 3 months; the experiences and areas where opportunities have been identified and utilised. These SMMEs also got an opportunity to rub shoulders and get guidance from industry experts.

Three clothing making SMMEs, the Garland, Mampoi Exclusive Designs and 3Birds Boutique also showcased their work to potential clients at the Sasol Business Incubator in Sasolburg. The three SMMEs form part of the SMMEs that partnered with Sasol to manufacture face masks that were distributed to Sasol employees and fence-line communities in the height of COVID-19.

These SMMEs recently completed technical training where they were upskilled in pattern making, sewing, quality management and costing. Amongst others, these three SMMEs showcased PPE, school uniform, face masks, clothing, bags and accessories.

In Secunda, six Sasol supported clothing making SMMEs, Sbuzane 39 Trading and Enterprise, Lethando Business Enterprise, Mabhomba Trading, Mabhena Events, Veros Good Decisions and Ntshembo attended the Market Linkage workshop which aimed at equipping the SMMEs with information that is important to successfully manage and grow a small business and also afford them an opportunity to showcase their work. The event was hosted by SEDA and Moripe Business Training and Consultants and gave SMMEs an opportunity to network and showcase their work to potential clients.

Click here to learn more about Sasol’s Enterprise and Supplier Development.

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Join Hlamara Energy and CTE Solar at the Solar Show Africa 2020 virtual exhibition – to register click here.

Hlamara Energy

Hlamara Energy is a Pretoria West based company that develops solar Photovoltaic (PV) projects as an Independent Power Producer (IPP) for supply of solar energy through power purchase agreements. They also provide Engineering, Procurement, Construction (EPC) and Operations and Maintenance (O&M) services for solar PV projects.

The company is supported by a young dynamic workforce with a collective experience of 50 years in the energy industry.

Hlamara Energy is a subsidiary of Hlamara Group, which is developing Africa’s only vertical-integrated solar PV project with interests in silica mining and developing a silicon smelter in Rustenburg (North West) and manufacture of solar PV cells and panels in Emalahleni (Mpumalanga) and Upington (Northern Cape).

They have serviced clients like Viva Ndlwana Filling Station and David Thidiela’s farm in Limpopo. Their target market is made up of energy intensive users, utility companies, Solar PV project developers, and solar EPC contractors all over South Africa.

Hlamara is a registered project developer under the Department of Energy’s Small Projects IPP Procurement Program and is currently developing 2x5MW solar PV projects in Limpopo. They have been pre-qualified to participate in Sasol’s 2x10MW solar PV projects in Secunda and Sasolburg. The company have expressed interest to participate in Arcelor Mittal SA’s solar PV programme. As a level 1 BBBEE contributor, Hlamara has positioned itself as an ideal BEE partner for solar PV projects in South Africa. 

CTE Solar

CTE Solar is a Gauteng based company that operates within green economy and provides consultation service, solar installation and training. They manufacture and supply products within renewable energy, environment, waste management and water markets. The company has serviced 25 households thus far in the Vaal Triangle area. Their target market is mostly on commercial and residential properties in Gauteng, Free State, Limpompo and Secunda. Their biggest power output is 1320W.

CTE has a phenomenal team of experts and deliver beyond expectations in the field of solar system installations that last up to 25 years with 85% efficiency, conduct feasibility studies and energy audits, solar installation, maintenance and operations. As a value add they provide free training to their clients on solar system maintenance.

The CTE team is made up of youth, and innovation is their biggest strength. The team are inspired by the current market and the future of the renewable energy.

Click here to read the article on the seven SMMEs who were selected to go through the Sasol Business Accelerator programme.

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Since partnering with the petrochemical giant Sasol to produce laboratory tested alcohol-based sanitiser the Sasolburg-based KSM Chemicals company, has been able to ramp up its production up to 5,000 litres of sanitiser a day within its first week of production. This has since increased production to the current level of 10,000 litres a day. 

To date, KSM has produced half a million litres of hand sanitiser, which has been distributed to NGOs such as Gift of the Givers Charities Aid Foundation and to hospitals in Gauteng among them Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, Charlotte Maxeke Hospital, Helen Joseph Hospital, Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital and Leratong Hospital. The latter was in partnership with Anglo Ashanti, the Imperial Group, and Sibanye Gold.

Further shipments were delivered to the Gauteng Department of Health to distribute to its clinics and hospitals around the province, as well to Mozambique where Sasol has operations.

“This being a first for Sasol and KSM, we had a lot of learnings from the process as we had to ensure that the hand sanitiser is produced according to the World Health Organisation’s standards and guidelines and that KSM’s manufacturing process was up to the required standard,” says Vongani Mbatha, Sales Manager at Sasol Base Chemicals.

While Sasol’s Research and Technology divisions in Secunda and Sasolburg have both produced hand sanitiser liquid for Sasol’s internal use and supplying Clinics in fenceline communities, KSM has produced the bulk of the product. This has ensured the constant supply to communities in greatest need since March when the small company was appointed as an official manufacturer on Sasol’s supplier database. Sasol supplies KSM with a high purity ethanol blend, which the smaller chemical maker turns into high grade sanitiser. As part of continued development and capacity building, Sasol ESD has appointed a company to support and enable KSM with ethanol management skills, which is a step further to them being industry matter experts in specialised chemicals.

About KSM

KSM was established in 2015 by its founders Kelvin and Selina Jacobs and was incubated at the Sasol Business Incubation facility in Sasolburg for a year.  

The company began processing and recycling used oil from local McDonald’s franchises to make biodiesel and produced cleaning products for Sasol’s plant. The business grew to five employees just prior to the lockdown but was forced to close its doors along with hundreds of thousands of other businesses around the country.

“Biodiesel was the bulk of our business and with McDonald’s being closed, we could not continue running,” Kelvin says. “The lockdown, however, was a blessing in disguise because we have been working 10-to-12-hour days throughout and our business has grown to seven people, with more to come”.

“In April alone, we produced over 100 000 litres of sanitiser, some of which we delivered to our own clients directly, along with what we produced for Sasol. We have smaller shipments we sent as far as the Western Cape and we are constantly inundated with requests for products from clients all over the country,” he adds.

As the country steps down its lockdown levels, including the resumption of schools, houses of worship and other mass gatherings, hand sanitiser will be an integral part of South African daily life. In the coming weeks, the company will deliver additional loads of hand sanitiser to the City of Johannesburg, as well as to the Department of Education in anticipation of the reopening of schools and the additional hygiene protocols that will be required.

“I believe that we are in a position to grow even further than the 15 000 litres a day, over the coming months,” Kelvin says. “While new entrants may want to make their own blends of homemade sanitiser, they will find a strict requirement down the line, a process which we have already gone through, and we can now supply to the broader South African market.”

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“They were selected through a stringent and thorough four week selection process managed by Zevoli, which is an independent third-party company appointed by Sasol to assist with the selecting and screening of potential candidates for the Sasol Business Accelerator programme,” said Ofentse Tiro, Enterprise and Supplier Manager at Sasol. 

In May this year, Sasol announced that applications were open for SMMEs that are located in Metsimaholo, Emfuleni and Ngwathe Local Municipalities operating in the above-mentioned sectors to join the Sasol Business Accelerator programme. The deadline for applications was Wednesday, 17 June 2020.

Sasol received nearly 200 applications for the programme SMMEs from even outside of the specified municipal areas. However, as Sasol’s commitment is to primarily develop SMMEs in its fence-line communities, focus was on those in the Free State. 

The seven successful SMMEs will kick-off the programme this week with a three-day induction training that starts today. The purpose is to provide the companies with an overview of Sasol’s operations, highlight the importance of safety, and outline what they can expect over the coming months in relation to the accelerator programme. 

The SMMEs will based at the Sasol Business Incubator in Sasolburg. Located inside Sasol’s Eco-industrial Park in Sasolburg, the facility is fully-equipped and structured to host and enable this diverse mix of businesses to be developed into larger companies. 

The 24-month SBA programme, which kicks off this week, will entail: 

• Infrastructure support 
• Development support
• Mentoring and coaching
• Networking
• Funding support

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The small business centre, complete with high-speed Internet access, will provide local SMMEs with access to office space, colour printing, copiers and scanners, specialised software for technical requirements such as industry specific engineering and design software, as well as telephone services. Furthermore, SMMEs will, for up to two hours a day, have access to fully-furnished working spaces, a boardroom and meeting rooms. Alongside these services will be assistance with registration on to Sasol’s Ariba system.

“This facility will deliver a very important function and massive value to SMMEs in the region,” said Phelelani Mbhele, Enterprise and Supplier Development Manager at Sasol’s Secunda Operation. “While we have more than 100 SMMEs on our enterprise development database supported through various programmes, the office will be open to 51% and more, black-owned EMEs and QSEs.” Pre-booking will be essential and no access will be granted to the facility if the booking confirmation was not been received. There will also be compulsory first time registration process which will need to be completed and approved, confirming the SMMEs compliance to Sasol’s requirements and a user profile will be generated.

“Some of the most common gaps that we have seen start-ups struggle with are effective communication mechanisms, accessing Sasol’s systems and responding to RFQs, and the office has been designed to address these,” he added.

With transmission of Coronavirus likely to be a concern, safety measures to control the spread of the virus have been instituted at the location, with social distancing and sanitising established as an integral part of operations – adhering to the government regulations.

Mbhele says the petrochemical giant will include only those that are CIPC registered and at least 51% black-owned in the pool of SMMEs to be considered for participation in the development programme. This is in its quest to increase participation of local businesses and advance the transformation with specific focus to the Secunda region.

Click here to see how Sasol enables SMMEs

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