Keeping the wheels of compassion turning, Engen has reaffirmed its commitment to fighting hunger by pledging a further R2-million in fuel support to FoodForward SA. The latest contribution brings Engen’s total fuel assistance to R10-million since 2020 – a lifeline that keeps FoodForward SA’s truck fleet moving across South Africa’s vast terrain to deliver food to vulnerable communities.
World Food Day on 16 October saw Engen employees rolling up their sleeves alongside colleagues from Vivo Energy, volunteering at FoodForward SA warehouses in KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape, and Gauteng. Together, the teams sorted, packed, and prepared food parcels destined for thousands of beneficiary organisations nationwide.
Driving change through logistics
FoodForward SA Managing Director Andy du Plessis expresses deep appreciation for the partnership: “We thank Engen and Vivo for their ongoing generosity and for caring enough to make a real difference. Their annual fuel support helps FoodForward SA alleviate hunger across the country and ensures that many more impoverished households receive food provisions.”
Fuel, as any operator knows, is the heartbeat of logistics. Without it, trucks don’t move and communities don’t get served. Engen’s contribution ensures FoodForward SA’s delivery fleet can stay on the road – covering long-haul routes that link food donors to those most in need.
Sustaining impact beyond World Food Day
Engen CSI Manager Olwethu Mdabula highlights the importance of partnerships that go beyond immediate relief: “As a brand that aims to improve the lives of the communities in which we operate, Engen is humbled to partner with FoodForward SA and play our part on World Food Day.
“But we also recognise that lasting impact requires more than food hampers – it requires a clear, sustainable plan that includes skills transfer and a focus on long-term food security. This is why we are deliberate about the partners we choose and the impact we seek to make.”
Founded in 2009, FoodForward SA bridges the gap between surplus and shortage by recovering quality excess food from the consumer goods supply chain and redistributing it to organisations supporting vulnerable groups.
“As a caring and inclusive company with heart, our support for FoodForward SA aligns with Engen’s commitment to the United Nations SDGs, which strive for a better and more sustainable future for all,” concludes Mdabula.
Editor’s comment: Fuel may power trucks, but partnerships like this power change. Engen’s R10-million commitment demonstrates the direct link between the logistics industry and social sustainability – proof that the road freight sector has a human engine as vital as any diesel. Keeping FoodForward SA’s fleet running ensures more than deliveries – it keeps hope mobile. For an industry that knows every litre counts, this is a story of fuel well spent.
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