Automotive Industry Touching Lives
PRETORIA: Friday, September 06, 2024: As a century of wheels turns beneath South African skies, we pause to honour more than the roads we’ve travelled. A deeper story of an industry caring for the people of South Africa emerges. Over the past eight years, the automotive sector has invested significantly in Corporate Social Responsibility [CSR], focusing particularly on the health sector.
With investments totalling approximately R335.1 million, automakers have prioritized community wellness through diverse projects that have left lasting impacts. These initiatives range from upgrading hospitals and clinics to supporting grassroots health efforts, reflecting the industry’s deep commitment to improving South African society.
CSR Investment in Health Over the Past Eight Years
The automotive sector’s CSR contributions to health in South Africa reveal a trend of consistent investment, peaking in the latter part of the period:
- 2018: 3 million
- 2019: 5 million
- 2020: 4 million
- 2021: 1 million [marked increase due to COVID-19 efforts]
- 2022: 4 million
- 2023: 1 million
The spike in 2020 and 2021, reflecting a strong response to the COVID-19 pandemic, underscores the industry’s adaptability and commitment to addressing urgent health needs.
KEY HEALTH-RELATED CSR PROJECTS
- BMW Group’s COVID-19 Response [2020/21]
BMW South Africa played a pivotal role in the national fight against COVID-19. Collaborating with both South African and German governments, BMW upgraded eight hospitals and four community clinics across Gauteng, Northwest, and Limpopo provinces. These upgrades provided 750 new hospital beds and enhanced facilities to better handle the surge of COVID-19 cases. For example, the Soshanguve Combined Clinic near BMW’s Rosslyn plant was transformed into a COVID-19 testing and screening centre, offering critical services to nearby communities. In addition, BMW provided vehicles to healthcare workers and donated essential supplies such as breathing masks and disinfectants. These actions underscored BMW’s commitment to both its employees and the broader community, helping mitigate the impact of the pandemic.
- Suzuki Auto South Africa and the SA Guide-Dogs Association
Suzuki Auto South Africa has maintained a six-year partnership with the SA Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind, a cause that aligns with their core values of community support and inclusivity. Suzuki sponsors vehicles used in fundraising raffles, with the proceeds going toward the training of guide dogs. This initiative not only enhances the lives of visually impaired individuals but also reflects Suzuki’s long-term commitment to supporting marginalized groups. In 2023, Suzuki’s contributions included R53,000 towards marketing efforts to maximize the reach and impact of the campaign.
- Mitsubishi Motors and KZN Flood Relief [2022]
Mitsubishi Motors South Africa [MMSA], in collaboration with AmaZulu FC, took swift action in the wake of the devastating Durban floods of 2022. The partnership provided blankets and essential items to displaced families in uMzinyathi and Umlazi, offering comfort and support to those hardest hit. Mitsubishi’s efforts, widely publicized through various media channels, demonstrated the automaker’s focus on community welfare beyond automotive services. Mitsubishi also initiated a sanitary pad drive for Khiphulwazi Senior Primary School and Phindela Primary School, ensuring that young girls have access to essential sanitary products, allowing them to attend school with dignity and confidence.
- Daimler Truck and the Trucking Wellness Programme
Daimler Truck Southern Africa, through its long-standing partnership with the Corridor Empowerment Project [CEP], has strengthened the Trucking Wellness Programme. This initiative, originally launched in 1999, focuses on promoting HIV, AIDS, and STI awareness among long-distance truck drivers and at-risk communities. Daimler’s efforts, which include technical input, upskilling workshops, and extending wellness services to key customers, have improved the overall quality of care provided at the 20 roadside Wellness Centres. These Wellness Centres offer health information, screening, and holistic primary healthcare to truck drivers, sex workers, and surrounding communities, particularly at night, ensuring high-risk groups have access to vital health services.
- Volkswagen Group Middle Street clinic
Volkswagen’s commitment to social upliftment shines through its partnership with loveLife, a youth-centered initiative aimed at reducing HIV infections among South Africa’s young people. In 2012, Volkswagen opened the loveLife Y-Centre in KwaNobuhle as part of its youth development programme. This vibrant hub offers a wide range of services, from computer coding classes and cultural activities to health services such as HIV testing and pap smears. The Y-Centre also hosts a radio station, where local youth can hone their presenting skills, with dreams of one day stepping onto bigger platforms. Reaching over 40,000 young people across 25 schools annually, the Y-Centre serves as a beacon of opportunity, empowering youth to thrive as they transition into adulthood.
Additionally, Volkswagen’s Middle Street Clinic initiative in Kabah underscores the automaker’s dedication to improving healthcare in impoverished communities. Through the collective efforts of the Volkswagen Community Trust and the Show of Hands programme, over 160 volunteers revitalized the clinic with essential repairs, a water tank, and a vibrant mural.
- Iveco Group Casa Caritas initiative
Similarly, Iveco South Africa demonstrates its commitment to the community through its involvement with Casa Caritas, a non-profit organization that cares for physically and mentally handicapped individuals. On Mandela Day 2024, Iveco employees visited Casa Caritas, delivering food, clothing, and financial contributions. This heartfelt gesture exemplifies the spirit of Mandela Day, encouraging others to follow in their footsteps of kindness and compassion.
- Ford and Unjani Clinics
Ford South Africa’s partnership with Unjani Clinics has been instrumental in providing primary healthcare to underserved communities. In 2021, Ford donated two Transit panel vans converted into mobile clinics, offering healthcare access to rural areas. These mobile units bring essential services to approximately 2,750 people, empowering local health workers, especially Black female nurses, by creating jobs and developing sustainable healthcare models. This initiative supports both community health and local economic development, embodying Ford’s commitment to long-term, meaningful social impact.
A Legacy of Health and Well-being
Over the past eight years, South Africa’s automotive sector has not only revolutionized transportation but also significantly contributed to improving public health. These initiatives, driven by the industry to reflect an industry-wide focus on CSR that goes beyond profit and production. By investing in the health and well-being of the nation, these automakers have solidified their role as key stakeholders in South Africa’s socio-economic development.
As the industry celebrates 100 years, its contributions to health serve as a testament to the power of corporate responsibility in building a better future for all South Africans.
STATEMENT ENDS
ABOUT THE SA AUTOMOBILE INDUSTRY
- the automotive industry contributes 5.3% to GDP [3.2% manufacturing and 2.1% retail];
- in 2023, the export of vehicles and automotive components reached a record amount of R270.8 billion, equating to 14.7% of South Africa’s total exports;
- the industry accounts for 21.9% of the country’s manufacturing output;
- vehicles and components are exported to 148 international markets;
- the manufacturing segment of the industry presently employs in the order of 110,000 people across its various tiers of activity [from component manufacturing to vehicle assembly];
- combined with the industry’s strong multiplier effect, the industry is responsible for approximately 457,000 jobs across the South African economy’s formal sector.
CONTACT US
- Enquiries: Mikel M. MABASA, Chief Executive Officer, mikel@naamsa.co.za;
- Contact Numbers: +27 12 807 0152 or +27 82 909 6621;
- More information can be found on naamsa.co.za.
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