Avatar photo

By Editorial staff

Journalist


Car makers reflecting the spirit of ubuntu

Volkswagen is also investing heavily in supporting new players in its supply chain.


Ubuntu is not a phrase you would normally associate with the hard-nosed business world, but it can be fostered alongside the balance sheets if, as a major manufacturing company, you allow your suppliers to also work for your competitors.

That’s what Ford South Africa is doing in encouraging small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) to become part of its local supplier network.

ALSO READ: Ubuntu Pathways: Project paves the path for a new life

Esther Buthelezi, Ford’s local transformation manager, says this strategy can help make small businesses more sustainable – and create even more jobs. And, as she points out in an opinion piece today, a job created is likely to be for a breadwinner, so families are getting the opportunity for a better life.

“It’s a step towards financial security and a step away from generational poverty,” she says.

Another multinational giant in our motor industry, Volkswagen, is also investing heavily in supporting new players in its supply chain, as well as running a number of outreach programmes in education and social upliftment.

ALSO READ: Teaching children about ubuntu vital to building a better SA – Kasrils

This is the dividend from having an attractive environment for foreign investors – those committed to a long-term partnership with our country. In not putting profits ahead of people, such companies truly reflect the spirit of ubuntu: “I am because we are…”

Read more on these topics

Ford Ubuntu Volkswagen(VW)

For more news your way

Download our app and read this and other great stories on the move. Available for Android and iOS.