Covid-19: One million litres of jet fuel to bring SA citizens home

Sasol has donated a million litres of jet fuel to support the government’s efforts to repatriate hundreds of South Africans stranded in foreign countries due to the closing of borders as a result of the global Covid-19 pandemic.

“With lockdowns and travel restrictions in effect in several parts of the world, many South Africans find themselves stranded and unable to return home.

“We understand their plight and want to help in the effort to reunite them with their families and loved ones,” said Sasol CEO Fleetwood Grobler.

In addition to donating the jet fuel, Sasol is also working with government in responding to the significant increase in demand for hygiene products since the Covid-19 outbreak.

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“We have fast-tracked the production of a new unique alcohol blend, which is safe and suitable for the manufacture of disinfectants and hand sanitisers, and in partnership with government, have prioritised local supply across the country, while maintaining stable prices,” said Grobler.

He added that Sasol is also manufacturing its own hand sanitiser products, specifically to meet the needs of its fenceline communities near to its various operational sites, as well its employees.

“As we ramp up supplies, we are rapidly increasing donations to these communities and local hospitals,” said Grobler.

“Working in partnership with a Sasol enterprise and supplier development beneficiary, we will scale this up to 100 000 litres per week.”

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The company has also undertaken to work with government departments to supply relief efforts including:

• The supply of approximately 1 000 units of personal protective equipment.
• Making facilities available for the accommodation of personnel on the ground.
• A partnership with Africa Teen Geeks and the Department of Basic Education to provide access to free online and interactive STEM, as well as literacy and reading subjects, for learners in Grades R to 12
• Possibilities of establishing testing sites at Sasol facilities, as well as providing protective equipment for health practitioners where possible.

“While as Sasol we have seen some impact on our organisation and our people due to Covid-19, we recognise our duty and deeper responsibility to support our fenceline communities, and society at large, in these challenging and uncertain times,” Grobler said.

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