KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, 20 December 2024: Reflecting on 2024, Grindrod demonstrated its steadfast commitment to social responsibility by actively investing in the communities where it operates. Rooted in the core value of "touching lives of our communities" and aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Grindrod's initiatives pave the way for a more sustainable and inclusive future. Through a diverse range of projects in Richards Bay and Durban, Grindrod is making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families, with a focus on education, nutrition, and environmental sustainability, reflecting its commitment to SDGs 2, 3, 4, and 13, as well as its broader ESG commitment to social stewardship and holistic development.
Grindrod has collaborated with Adopt-A-School Foundation for many years, aligning with SDG 4 - Quality Education. One of the beneficiaries, Mabhodla Primary School in Richards Bay, has benefited from enhanced facilities and educational programs. Grindrod funded the construction of three state-of-the-art classrooms, a gesture celebrated in a heartwarming ceremony where school leaders, community members, and Grindrod representatives came together to emphasize the importance of quality education for every child.
In a symbolic gesture of commitment and support, a team comprising colleagues from various departments of Grindrod visited another adopted school in Durban to launch the #WalkTheTalk Initiative at Inhlakanipho Secondary School to foster a culture of excellence and achievement among students. The event, celebrating the achievements of the school's matriculants, included donations of school shoes and goodie bags, accompanied by inspirational talks by Grindrod team members, further solidifying Grindrod's commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders.
Grindrod joined forces with the Blossom Care team, supporting SDG 3 - Ensure good health and well-being for all - to introduce a menstrual health program at other adopted schools, Sinaye Primary School in Richards Bay and Inhlakanipho Secondary School in Durban. Through engaging role plays, music, and dance, the dynamic Blossom Care team delivered vital information, leaving attendees inspired and empowered. Grindrod's contribution of a 6-month supply of sanitary pads underscores its commitment to supporting education and improving school attendance, focusing on enhancing young women's lives.
Beyond these inspiring initiatives, Grindrod provides scholarships through Cyril Ramaphosa's Education Trust to promising matriculants to further their studies. At a career day, Grindrod was delighted to host seven graduates. The highlight of the day was a captivating talk by CEO Mr. Xolani Mbambo, whose inspiring journey from humble beginnings to professional success resonated deeply with the audience. Emphasizing hard work and determination, Mr. Mbambo urged the graduates to pursue excellence and embrace their unique paths to success.
Grindrod's steadfast dedication to community well-being extends beyond education to encompass vital areas such as nutrition and environmental sustainability. By supporting programs like the Domino Foundation Nutrition program and establishing sustainable food gardens in partnership with Food & Trees for Africa, Grindrod empowers students and community members with essential skills while addressing hunger and food insecurity issues.
More about these programmes:
Nourishing young minds and bodies (SDG 2: Zero Hunger)
Recognizing that healthy childhood development starts with proper nutrition, Grindrod provides vital support to the Domino Foundation Nutrition programme. This program delivers nutritious meals to children aged 0-5 in Early Childhood Development centers, primary schools, and community centers in Richards Bay and Durban. These meals ensure that vulnerable children receive the nourishment necessary for healthy growth and learning.
Empowering school communities through sustainable food gardens (SDG 2: Zero Hunger)
In partnership with Food & Trees for Africa (FTFA), Grindrod has established thriving food gardens at Mabhodla Primary School in Durban and Khulangolwazi Special School in Richards Bay. This initiative goes beyond simply providing food; it empowers students and community members with hands-on training in sustainable agriculture, covering essential skills like soil and water management, composting, and pest control. These gardens now flourish, producing fresh ingredients for school meals and potentially generating a surplus for the benefit of the local community.
Uniting to combat hunger on Mandela Day (SDG 2: Zero Hunger)
Grindrod employees embodied the spirit of Mandela Day by joining forces with Rise Against Hunger to pack over 40 000 meals, which were distributed to communities in need. This initiative powerfully demonstrates Grindrod's dedication to social justice and combats hunger and food insecurity.
Planting trees for a greener future (SDG 13: Climate Action)
In celebration of Arbor Day, Grindrod actively contributes to a healthier environment. The company planted Spekboom plants across 4 terminal sites in Richards Bay, enhancing carbon sequestration and promoting ecological restoration. Furthermore, Grindrod planted fruit trees at Sinaye Primary School, enriching the school environment, providing nutritious food, and fostering environmental awareness among students.
These initiatives exemplify Grindrod's core values and unwavering dedication to positively impacting society and the environment. Grindrod firmly believes that investing in the well-being of communities is building a brighter and more sustainable future for all.
About Grindrod
Through its strategic terminal operations and extensive logistics capabilities in sub-Saharan Africa, Grindrod fulfils its purpose of making a positive difference in Africa's trade with the world, touching the lives of the communities in which it operates. Grindrod finds the best route to market by road, rail, or sea, handling all logistics. Services include customs clearance and forwarding, intermodal solutions, project logistics, rail logistics, road and sea transport, ship agency services, terminal operations, and warehouse management.
Grindrod was founded in 1910, employs over 4,000 qualified people, and is represented in more than 20 countries.