Sasol in Society

Fire Station Upgrades & Community Learning Centre Handover

Sasol and Natref Operations are proud to announce the successful handover of two crucial projects: the Community Learning Centre (CETC) and the Sasolburg Fire Station upgrades. These initiatives underscore Sasol’s enduring commitment to enhancing the wellbeing of its fenceline community in Sasolburg, prioritising education, skills development, and public safety.

The CETC, which has long been a vital resource for adult education, was previously operating from a temporary location. When the premises became unavailable, Sasol collaborated with the Metsimaholo Local Municipality to secure a permanent home for the centre. This resulted in the allocation of land within the Sasolburg and Natref Operations fenceline, where a modern facility was constructed. The new centre, built using Light Frame Steel Construction for swift completion, now boasts a U-shaped building featuring six classrooms, a computer lab, a boardroom, administrative offices with a strong room, a Principal’s Office, and designated toilets for both ladies and gents. Covering over 330 m², the facility also has its own water and electricity connections, ensuring uninterrupted service. This new centre marks a significant step forward in supporting education and empowering the Sasolburg community with lifelong learning opportunities.

Alongside this, Sasol has also addressed pressing challenges faced by the Sasolburg Fire Station, which serves the entire Metsimaholo Local Municipality, including the Oranjeville area. A recent review revealed that the fire station had been struggling with issues such as power outages, outdated infrastructure, and insufficient firefighting equipment, which hindered its ability to protect the community effectively.

To tackle these challenges, Sasol initiated a series of critical upgrades. The installation of solar panels will ensure uninterrupted 24/7 operations, allowing the station to respond to emergencies without delays caused by power outages. In addition, the control room’s communication equipment was upgraded to full functionality, now fully integrated with solar power for enhanced reliability. Dispatch operations have also been improved by servicing the station’s roller doors to ensure they function seamlessly during emergencies. The electrical systems were updated to address safety concerns, and defective light fittings were replaced to ensure the station is fully compliant with safety standards. To further protect the frontline fire personnel, Sasol has supplied new firefighting personal protective equipment (PPE). Security measures at the facility have been enhanced to safeguard the emergency equipment, and the administrative offices have been renovated to create a more welcoming environment for both staff and visitors.

These upgrades are designed to significantly improve the fire station’s ability to respond to emergencies, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the Metsimaholo community. By focusing on both education and emergency response, Sasol continues to strengthen its commitment to empowering and protecting its fenceline community, ensuring the Sasolburg and surrounding areas have the tools and resources they need to thrive.

Our leadership provided these insights…

“Both the Community Learning Centre and the Sasolburg Fire Station reflect our dedication to building a resilient, empowered, and safe community. These projects are not just corporate investments; they are a testament to our partnership with the people of Sasolburg. We see ourselves as more than just a business here—we are part of the fabric of this community, and we are proud to contribute to its future.” – Rightwell Laxa, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs.

“The handover of the Community Learning Centre and the upgrades to the Sasolburg Fire Station are part of Sasol’s broader vision for creating long-term, sustainable social impact. These projects speak to two pillars we hold dear: empowering our communities through education and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the people who live here.

These achievements are the result of a collaborative effort. From the very beginning, Sasol has worked closely with the Metsimaholo Local Municipality, community leaders, and other key stakeholders to identify the pressing needs of this community. Together, we identified education and public safety as two critical areas where our support could make a real difference.” – Dr Thuli Mbuli, Head of Corporate Affairs.

“I have seen firsthand the positive impact that Sasol’s initiatives have on this community. We are not just here as an industrial leader; we are here as a partner in community development. Our operations are deeply embedded in Sasolburg, and we are committed to making meaningful contributions to the well-being and progress of the people who live here.

Both the Community Learning Centre and the Sasolburg Fire Station upgrades represent Sasol’s ongoing commitment to building a thriving, safe, and empowered community. These projects go beyond our operational footprint and reflect our deep belief in the importance of supporting the communities that support us.” – Ntokozo Gcabashe, Senior Vice President Sasolburg, Natref & Ekandustria Operations.

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