The donation was formalised during the recent Automechanika Johannesburg exhibition. At the event, the company hosted an impressive stand that showcased its extensive product line, featuring both a variety of South African-manufactured filtration products and a selection of key imported items designed for the automotive sector.

This move follows the launch of MANN+HUMMEL's first South African production facility in Kempton Park in March. The facility is fully equipped to produce a broad spectrum of air filtration products, efficiently handling both small and large-scale manufacturing volumes.

Cedric Dackam, MANN+HUMMEL President and General Manager of Automotive Aftermarket, commented on the site's rapid progress: “Our product range has grown every month since we started. The design of the facility is such that it allows us to quickly add products based on customer demand.”

Currently, the Kempton Park factory focusses on manufacturing filters for passenger and commercial vehicles, primarily supplying aftermarket distributors, with plans for swift expansion into serving original vehicle manufacturers (OEMs).

Cedric also highlighted the company’s strategic outlook, which includes exploring expansion opportunities for the factory into off-highway applications, such as the large mining vehicles common in the region that require frequent filter replacements. This positions South Africa as a vital manufacturing and distribution hub for Sub-Saharan Africa.

During the handover, Onur Ozyapici, Vice President MANN+HUMMEL Automotive Aftermarket ISMEA, underscored the company’s broader responsibility: “In this day and age, it simply isn’t enough for a multinational such as ours to set facilities up in a new country. We have to ensure that we are socially and environmentally responsible.”

He continued: “We want to lead the way in sustainable filtration by not only delivering performance but by building solutions that protect the environment, reduce waste and support inclusive, long-term progress in every region we serve. I am, therefore, proud to announce this donation to Food and Trees for Africa that resonates with MANN+HUMMEL’s sustainable production ethos and commitment for a greener Africa.”

Christopher Wild, Executive Director of Food and Trees for Africa, praised the commitment: “We commend MANN+HUMMEL for demonstrating that industrial success can, and must, go hand-in-hand with a deep commitment to investing in the environment. This strategic contribution to nature restoration and food security is vital, and it reinforces a fundamental truth: dedicated funding to non-profit organisations like Food and Trees for Africa is essential to translate corporate vision into tangible, lasting impact on the ground."

Food and Trees for Africa will use the funds for several greening initiatives across schools and industrial sites, including projects directly at the MANN+HUMMEL facility in Kempton Park, executed with the assistance of the local MANN+HUMMEL team.