Engen contributes further to fighting Covid-19, pledging R1m to FoodForward SA

Andy du Plessis, managing director of FoodForward SA receives a fuel voucher from Engen’s general manager: corporate strategy and communications, Khalid Latiff

Speaking following the official cheque handover in Cape Town, Khalid Latiff, Engen’s general manager: corporate strategy and communications, commended FoodForward SA for the incredible work they do addressing widespread hunger and food insecurity in South Africa.

“As Engen, we are humbled to partner with FoodForward SA, who have escalated their already impressive food aid efforts following the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic and national lockdown restrictions,” said Latiff, “and we hope our fuel contribution will ensure FoodForward SA’s transport fleet reaches a broader spectrum of vulnerable communities across the length and breadth of the country.”

Andy du Plessis, managing director of FoodForward SA, hailed the generous fuel contribution by Engen, which will ensure many more impoverished households receive food provisions. “Thank you to Engen for your generosity and for caring enough to make a real difference.”

Engen's Covid-19 investments in the Covid-19 fight

Engen’s contribution to the fight against Covid-19 and the impact of the national lockdown includes a number of investments. In early June, Engen partnered with the Gift of the Givers to provide food relief to the South Durban community, distributing 1,000 food hampers.

Furthermore, R2.5m fuel and medical testing equipment was passed to the Gift of the Givers to boost their humanitarian relief work, and R1m worth of fuel was directed to the Department of Health to power the emergency response vehicles of South Africa’s frontline health workers.

Engen also recently launched a campaign educating local communities on safety measures to curb the spread of the virus. This was achieved by branding 35 spaza shops across the country with educational murals to convey important messages on personal safety.

In Gauteng, Engen fuel retailers brought some hope and relief to the people of Diepsloot by distributing food hampers and basic supplies (including blankets) to over 6,000 residents. A further 1,100 food hampers were distributed to residents in Alexandra and Tembisa.

“We are deeply moved by those severely impacted by Covid-19 and the national lockdown restrictions and we hope our contributions make a small difference to each person who receives the comfort of a helping hand as a result of our efforts,” added Latiff.