In a remarkable display of commitment to addressing food insecurity, leading fuel supplier Engen has pledged R4 million worth of fuel to FoodForward SA since 2020. This partnership has powered the delivery of nutritious food to vulnerable communities across the country, covering an astounding distance of over half a million kilometres.
Over the past year alone, Engen’s fuel has propelled FoodForward SA’s delivery fleet to traverse 508 906 kilometres, supporting the organisation’s vital food security programmes, including its mobile rural depot initiative.
Launched in June 2019, this programme aims to combat food insecurity in underserved rural communities by transporting monthly food provisions to central locations, where they are collected by vetted beneficiary organisations.
Going the extra mile for food security
The partnership with Engen, our fuel sponsor, is invaluable in providing food security to these vulnerable rural communities, says Andy du Plessis, chief executive of FoodForward SA, emphasising the critical role Engen has played in enabling their operations. With Engen’s support, FoodForward SA’s trucks have been able to travel vast distances, spanning all nine provinces of South Africa, to address food insecurity in rural areas.
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Since its inception, the mobile rural depot programme has expanded to serve a total of 34 vulnerable rural communities, ensuring that nutritious groceries, comprising a mix of non-perishable items and fresh produce, reach those in need.
The impact of this collaboration can be felt in various regions, including King William’s Town, Alice, Aliwal North, East London, Mthatha, Matatiele, Queenstown, Bethlehem, Qwaqwa, and many others.
Shared goals for a worthy cause
Dr James Nyawera, Engen’s manager for transformation and stakeholder engagement, expresses the brand’s deep commitment to enriching lives for a sustainable future. As a caring and inclusive company with heart, support of FoodForward SA aligns with Engen’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which endeavour to ensure a better and more sustainable future for all, says Nyawera.
Engen’s involvement with FoodForward SA goes beyond providing fuel; it represents a shared vision to tackle widespread hunger and food insecurity in South Africa. “It is a privilege, and we trust our fuel contribution will ensure their transport fleet is able to reach vulnerable communities in the furthest corners of the country,” he adds.
The collaboration between Engen and FoodForward SA showcases the power of collective action and corporate social responsibility in making a tangible difference in the lives of those facing adversity. As Engen continues to support FoodForward SA, their joint efforts serve as a beacon of hope, delivering not only sustenance but also a promise of a brighter future for all.
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