Speaking at the pre-launch celebration of the Sasol Inzalo Broad-based Black Economic Empowerment transaction this week, Sasol Chief Executive Pat Davies added his voice to those condemning the attacks.

 

"We at Sasol are, like so many, deeply saddened by the violence that has unfolded in recent weeks and join the call for tolerance and respect to guide our actions and attitudes," he said.

 

"We extend our heartfelt sympathy to those families and loved ones affected by the violence and to our own staff, some of whom have been directly affected by this violence, creating fear and uncertainty in their lives and the lives of their families."

 

Sasol will contribute R1 million to assist victims of the attacks and the contribution will be facilitated through the Red Cross. The funding will be used to support those affected in both South Africa as well Mozambique - a neighbour of great importance to both South Africa and Sasol. Collection points have also been established at Sasol offices, from where donations of clothing, blankets and food are being coordinated.

 

Davies said an underlying cause of many of the challenges facing South African society remains those of poverty and unemployment. He said projects focused on transformation, such as the Sasol Inzalo transaction, were important tools in the journey to overcome these challenges by helping South Africans to actively participate in the economy and by encouraging broad-based wealth creation.