In a show of enduring solidarity with South Africa’s agricultural sector, Hino South Africa has once again stepped up to provide vital drought relief to communities in need. Answering a recent call from the non-profit organisation The People of South Africa Foundation, the company dispatched a 700 2845 truck-tractor from its demonstrator fleet to transport 34 tons of urgently needed animal fodder across nearly 1 500 kilometres—from Secunda to Loeriesfontein in the drought-stricken Northern Cape.
While recent headlines have focused on flooding and heavy rainfall across parts of the country, less visible crises persist elsewhere. “There are still pockets of South Africa that remain gripped by severe drought,” said Gilbert Martin, founder of We are South Africans and The People of South Africa Foundation NPC. “Loeriesfontein has suffered repeated droughts since 2013. At one point, this area went seven years without any rainfall, relying solely on groundwater to survive.”
For many of the small-scale livestock farmers scattered across Namaqualand and its surrounding towns, such as Springbok, Garies, and Kamieskroon, the situation remains dire. “It’s not just about keeping livestock alive,” Martin explained. “We also deliver food essentials—like potatoes and butternuts—for the families who depend on this land. In some areas, a single farm might have one green patch while the rest is parched and lifeless. It’s heartbreaking.”
This latest delivery is part of an ongoing collaboration between Hino South Africa and the foundation—an alliance that has grown significantly since the 2021 July unrest. In the wake of that national emergency, Hino and its dealer network, the Hino Knights, rallied to deliver aid across KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. Since then, they have continued to provide transport solutions during crises involving drought, fires, and floods.
“Our partnership with Hino has been nothing short of extraordinary,” said Martin. “Their commitment to supporting our logistical needs—whether it’s moving food, fodder, or essential supplies—has made a tangible difference in the lives of countless South Africans.”
Hino’s history of humanitarian assistance is deeply rooted in its corporate ethos. In 2021, the company loaned a 700 2848 truck-tractor and trailer combination for four months, helping ferry feed to severely affected areas like Vanwyksvlei, Boesmanland, and Calvinia. Over that period, the truck completed more than 20 trips and clocked nearly 40 000 kilometres.
Commenting on the company’s ongoing commitment, Itumeleng Segage, General Manager of Hino South Africa, said: “We’re honoured to be able to assist community organisations in their mission to support farmers and families living through these difficult times. The agricultural community was instrumental in supporting Toyota SA Motors during its formative years in the 1960s, and since Hino’s arrival in 1972, we’ve remained deeply connected to the farming sector.”
Segage added, “As a Toyota Group company, we don’t just build trucks—we build relationships. And we’ll continue to do what we can to stand alongside those making a difference.”
In a country as diverse and challenging as South Africa, where climate extremes can devastate entire communities, the collaboration between corporate responsibility and grassroots action remains essential. Thanks to the determined efforts of organisations like The People of South Africa Foundation—and partners like Hino South Africa—hope continues to find a way down even the most desolate roads.
