We can all agree that 2021 has been a very challenging year! We cannot wait to take a break! Keep your loved ones entertained and busy while learning and having fun at the same time. Remember to adhere to the COVID-19 regulations and social distancing! Due to changing Covid-19 restrictions and increased infections, be sure to check if these events are still taking place beforehand. Do remember that these events may change in date and time depending on the lockdown restrictions and lockdown level, so be sure to check whether the event is still taking place before you arrive.

Join the the Durban Botanic Gardens for a magical, botanical outdoor trail of lights celebrating Christmas this December. Follow the trail along the garden’s paths through the trees and landscape which will be spectacularly lit and all aglow. There’s something for everyone at this festive event! An illuminated trail that winds its way through Africa’s oldest surviving Botanic Garden providing a magical experience after dark and fun for all the family in a safe and secure environment.

Date and times: 3 December 2021 – 2 January 2022
Event closes at 21.30
Closed on Christmas Day
Entry time slots at 18:00, 19:00 and 20:00

Where: Durban Botanic Gardens

Ticket prices: 18:00 Entry – R70pp
19:00 Entry – R65pp
20:00 Entry – R60pp
Children aged 2 and under enter for free

Book your tickets at www.webtickets.co.za or at your nearest Pick n Pay. No tickets will be available at the door Limited tickets available per night due to COVID-19 restrictions. Tickets for the 2021 Durban Botanic Gardens Trail of Lights will be released in phases as regulations become clearer. Please check the Durban Botanic Gardens social media profiles for updates.

A Collection of curated vintage goods: retro household, collectibles, preloved & vintage clothing. Snacks & coffee by @thebreakfastroom. FREE for all Well behaved dogs allowed Parking is available at Ushaka.
Date: 18 December 2021 10:00 to 15:00
Where: DOLOS, 5 Southampton Street, 4001 Durban
More Info: https://allevents.in/durban/durban-vintage-market/200021927131825

Your favourite neighbourhood hero swings into Nu Metro cinemas countrywide when Spider-Man™: No Way Home' hits the BIG SCREEN from Thursday, 16 December! Book #SpiderManNoWayHome In celebration of the upcoming release Spider-Man™ will be visiting The Pavilion Shopping Centre! See you at the movies! View our full set of precautionary Covid-19 protocols here - numet.ro/covid19 #StaySafe Date: 18 December 2021, 10:00 to 12:00 Where: The Pavilion Shopping Centre, Jack Martens Rd., Durban More Info: https://allevents.in/durban/meet-spider-man%E2%84%A2-at-nu-metro-the-pavilion/200021927144329

Join us for a good day out with friends and family. Enjoy eats from a variety of food stalls, great outfits from various fashion designers. From as little as R50pp (tickets available at Webtickets.co.za

info@chillanathiconcepts.co.za

Date: 26 December 2021,10:00 to 21:00

Where: Woodburn Stadium, Pietermaritzburg

More Info: https://allevents.in/pietermaritzburg/chilla-nathi-cookout-experience/200021958986355

Illovo Sugar South Africa has realized that in order to remain competitive, it must re-evaluate its business approach, adopt new norms and regulations, and become more forward-thinking in order to accept new workplace dynamics, and the Fit4Future project has been successful in this regard.

The Focus Awards honours outstanding work and allows for learning to be shared across AB Sugar, inspiring us all to replicate with pride.

This year's entries were divided into five categories, which included the supply chain from agriculture to sales, our relentless focus on cost control, internal and external collaboration, and recognizing the importance of Health and Safety management.

These categories were:

1. COMMERCIAL APPROACH TO AGRICULTURE
2. BECOMING SUSTAINABLY LOW COST
3. MOVING BEYOND SALES
4. WIDENING THE HORIZON
5. HEALTH & SAFETY EXCELLENCE

The winners of the 2021 Focus Awards which were announced at the AB Sugar Leadership Conference:

Rainer Talanda won the “Becoming sustainably low cost” Category.

Illovo Fit4Future Project

“It has been a great privilege for me to have led the RDO during the bulk of the F4F project execution and represent Illovo on this ABS Focus Awards application. The ABS focus awards category “Becoming Sustainably Low Cost” describes the F4F project very well! It was launched as one of the strategic Group initiatives to transform the way Illovo operates, addressing substantive opportunities and challenges, to enable the Group vision. While embedment of the Operating Model still has some way to go and the journey to maturity of some the initiatives still very much in focus, progress and value delivery has been very substantial and second only in terms of ISA Group EBIT impact to the strong commercial performance. Against baseline, a cumulative benefit of more than R700M has been achieved! Highlights for me include the way the most significant change that the Group has seen in decades was managed, seeing the many examples of how our people have been empowered, reaching a turning point of shift staff no longer having to work 21 days in a row before having time off and introduction of an enabling utility shift, both of which were solved through the 4-team, 3-shift system which also helped secure employment as structural inefficiencies were resolved. The giant leap forward towards world class procurement category management and enablement, factory recoveries enablement, agric reset strategy and the impact of end-to-end supply chain management through the efficient supply reliability initiative, are further substantial achievements. Above all, the highlight of not regressing in our improving safety performance as far as LTI’s are concerned during the major change, but at the same time we need to acknowledge that much improvement is still needed as we build and embed our Illovo Safe culture.

Natalie Davey (Howlett) – nominated for the “Widening the Horizon” category From Surviving to Thriving: Seizing a Crisis as an Opportunity for Sustainable Growth

“This entry speaks to our continued efforts as a business to work creatively and persistently around the difficult circumstances posed by the Pandemic, and in particular – the embedded new ways of working that were bred through innovation and creativity in a time of crisis. I was very proud to listen to various colleagues (Group & Country) across the broader supply chain on the great work their teams had done to keep the business going. The Pandemic is certainly not over, but the efforts of many teams have not only led to great performance, but accelerated key aspects of the Illovo strategic intent. Well done all and thank you to those that contributed directly to this Focus Award entry”. Congratulations to the other Illovo finalists, namely the Project Leaders: Nishana Baboolall in the Moving Beyond Sales category; Accelerating Margin Growth through Supply Chain Efficiencies and Sustainable Business Tool Implementation

Pranisha Maharaj in the Moving Beyond Sales

Leveraging the Price Management Capability to Deliver Revenue Growth

Congratulations to Illovo Sugar Africa, British Sugar and Azucarera on their winnings.

We are living in the most amazing time in human history, yet at the same time we are faced with many challenges with the pandemic, crime, violence, just to name a few. Every day I see people who don’t know what to do or how to feel about it. Too many people are demotivated, negative and unhappy; they go to work wishing they didn’t have to. They wake up tired and spend their day tired and don’t have the energy to go out or even watch television because of all the negativity the media feeds us. I want to share that you need to start feeling more of the abundance around you, instead of focusing on limitation. Be inspired by everything around you no matter the negativity and always see the positive! There is a saying by Goldie Hawn, “Giving back is as good for you as it is for those you are helping, because giving gives you purpose. When you have a purpose-driven life, you’re a happier person.” Well, with that being said, I get inspired by going out of my way to make other people happy. Happiness is something money can’t buy. It is the by-product of spreading happiness among others. What do we have to gain from helping others you may ask? Well, nothing materialistic, but rather a sense of joy and satisfaction gained from spreading love. In addition, for me the inspiration is within me. I look back at whatever I have achieved no matter how big or small, and I am happy with what I have, whether it required a lot of my energy, many struggles, hardships, tears, and failures but at the end, I am happy and grateful. On that note, what have you done for others lately? How have you contributed to the wellbeing and happiness of others? Know that it is not too late! The festive season is upon us, so why not help bring a smile to those less fortunate by volunteering at an orphanage or donating sweets and toys? Donate your old clothes to the homeless, spare a loaf of bread for the hungry, offer your neighbour a cup of tea, massage your elders’ feet, help that lady at the grocery store reach the top of the shelf for her favourite cookies. The smallest thing that may seem silly to you might help change a person’s feelings and attitude for that day. At the end of the day we do not know what people go through daily but our sole purpose in life is to help humanity. Helping others may just be the secret to living a life that is not only happier but also healthier, wealthier, more productive, and meaningful.

Let us not lose the Ubuntu in us.

Although the holiday season is seen as joyful and fun, the holiday blues are a real phenomenon. The amount of stress felt during the holidays may surprise you, but you certainly aren’t alone in feeling low. The holiday season can be a tremendously stressful time for many individuals who are struggling with depression, loneliness and anxiety.

Here are some things to take into consideration during this period:

Take care of money worries

• Be cautious and careful with your money during December, never spend more than you should – getting into debt buying gifts and entertaining guests is never wise. Who needs Janu-worry financial blues?
• Find low-cost or free ways to have fun. Do not let money cut you off from your family and friends.

• Connect with friends and family online or via phone calls if you are separated by distance (or COVID-19).
• Consider charity work if you are feeling low, giving to others in need can certainly lift your own spirit.
• Make plans for Christmas Day. Perhaps make yourself a special breakfast and buy yourself a gift in advance to enjoy on the day. Invite other people who may be lonely to spend time with you.

Dealing with family tension

• Split families and unresolved conflict may contribute to anxiety. Family and relationship problems can be a trigger for anxiety.
• If you do consume alcohol, be sure to drink in moderation. It may be tempting to drink too much during the festive period, but alcohol can contribute to stress, anxiety and depression.
• Avoid known triggers. If your family has a history of arguing over a certain topic, do not bring it up and whenever possible avoid family drama.

Make use of professional psychologists that have been approved by ICAS to facilitate counselling sessions for ISSA employees at all the sites. Employees who need this service can book a session by using the toll free number (0800 775 777) or they can visit the clinic and make a booking. These counselling sessions are provided to assist with psychological problems or troubles that employees may be faced and can assist with any stress, grief, anxiety or trauma being experienced by individuals.

The psychologists provide support, advice and tips for everyday life and they are available at all sites. Individual face-to-face or telephonic and group counselling is available.

COVID-19 and the festive season

During this festive season COVID-19 safety should definitely be a major consideration. After months of isolation, it is understandable that people yearn for hugs from family members. But there is no need to celebrate by gathering in very large crowds, being overly excited that you forget the safety rules!

Some tips for the festive season

• Make your event is as safe as possible for guests; ventilate the rooms appropriately or host the event in your garden to enable natural ventilation.
• If you decide to have gathering, keep them small and short.
• Encourage people to wear masks and ensure there is enough space for each guest to maintain at least one metre distance from others.
• Help your guests follow COVID-19 appropriate measures — provide masks, alcohol-based hand sanitiser or access to soap and water.

Illovo Sugar Africa launched the Illovo Speak Up programme earlier this month, replacing the former Deloitte Tip-Offs Anonymous service. As Illovo Sugar South Africa, we are also a part of this new initiative. The Speak Up program was launched by ABF's 53 member companies throughout the world, and it is currently being customized for Illovo and integrated into our operations. We must continue to operate with integrity, proudly supporting and protecting a culture of trust, fairness, and accountability, and encouraging effective and honest communication at all levels of the organization. The existing whistleblowing procedures have been reviewed and expanded as part of our transition to our Speak Up campaign, to ensure that everyone feels encouraged to come forward with concerns while also feeling supported and protected throughout the process. The nomination and training of Speak Up officers in each of our businesses has already been completed as part of the implementation process. Their appointment, which is independent from the job of the existing ABC Officers, is meant to encourage people to file reports by providing alternative, more approachable, business-specific contacts.

Speak Up relies primarily on three basic alternatives to encourage disclosure – while being supported and protected at every stage in the process – to assist foster a culture of openness and freedom to come forward without fear of victimization:

• Talk to your line manager, which is the best thing to do in most cases
• Contact your Speak Up Officer, if you prefer or if the issue is unresolved, or
• Use the Speak Up phone line (existing Deloitte number - 0800 455 686) or URL (https://www.speakupfeedback.eu/web/absugar/za) , if you feel you can’t report your concerns internally

• Stephanie Buckley - Head Office Sbuckley@illovo.co.za
• Caleb Mdakane - Eston CMdakane@illovo.co.za
• Khanyo Seshemane - Noodsberg kseshemane@illovo.co.za
• Collin Gwala - Sezela Cgwala@illovo.co.za
• Chantal Daniel - Merebank CDaniel@illovo.co.za

We are in the early stages of implementation, and in the New Year, our Corporate Affairs division will offer a lot more information about Speak Up, including the finalization of the new Illovo Speak Up policy and the essential procedures it introduces. Personally, I am committed to eliminating unethical behaviour and impropriety in our organization, and I am even more committed to providing the appropriate measures, controls, encouragement, and support for those of us who wish to "Speak Up" about such behaviour wherever we work. For these reasons, I enthusiastically endorse the expansion of our present whistle-blower program, and I hope to have your support as well.

Regards,
Ricky Govender
Managing Director
Illovo Sugar (South Africa)

The Khuluma Nathi platform is a digital employee engagement solution designed for ISSA and was created during 2019, which connects employees directly to the organisation no matter where they are.

• Through real-time employee insights, enable Illovo to make more informed and real-time decisions supporting the business and operations.
• Shift ways of working with employees to allow for a more collaborative and engaging partnership.
• Reach a bigger audience and multiple constituencies simultaneously.

• Regular and accessible engagement between leadership and employees
• Regular and accessible information for employees on safety, production, vacancies and latest Illovo news
• Employee Recognition Programme
• The platform is available in English and isiZulu

• Broadcast messaging (Illovo Leadership Engagement)
• One on one Q and A or Suggestions to EXCO or GM’s
• Surveys
• Recognition and appreciation

• All permanent employees regardless of mobile device (Smart phone or basic mobile phone) or operating system being utilised.

USSD is free of charge for all Illovo staff. Dial *134*269# and follow the prompts.

To end off the year, we are ‘meeting’ and getting to know an additional five staff members from ISSA who have navigated their way through this year with various challenges as well as successes in our company, their personal lives and in the country. We chat to some of the syrup colleagues and a new member from finance!

1. What’s your name and what is your role at ISSA?
Geshnee Naidoo – Senior SHERQ Compliance Officer
2. How long have you been with ISSA?
On the eighth year now.
3. How do you relate to your colleagues and how do you contribute to team work?
I think that each person is different and understanding that is key. Respect is what builds relationships and being humble and always helping each other keeps the team together.
4. What do you love most about the company?
The sugar business has historically been a male orientated business and it is amazing to see the business grow, with so many females in very senior roles. I love that the business is always allowing people to develop. I started in this business as FTC and since grown significantly with a BTech in Biotechnology and another BTech in Quality Assurance. I’m also looking at starting my Masters for which I have already been receiving a lot of support.
5. What to you are key traits of a good leader?
Ultimately a good leader needs to be honest and transparent, ensuring that the right thing is always done and continuously setting a good example for all to follow.
6. What keeps you motivated on a daily basis?
My family. Losing loved ones at a young age made me realise that time is never on our side. I wake up every day and try to give my best to show my kids that giving your best and enjoying what you do, is really all there is to it.
7. What has been the biggest work challenge you’ve faced so far in your current role?
Working through the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuring our teams are safe, calm and still motivated. Also, juggling home schooling whilst being onsite was a challenge, but has definitely made my kids stronger. Having family members get sick and recovering from COVID-19 was one of the most stressful times.
8. What would you consider as one of your biggest triumphs and achievements achieved in your role?
I would say it was my ability to fit into this role quickly. I started at the syrup plant in the midst of many audits and had to learn and adapt very quickly. The late nights paid off with exceptional outcomes from the audits.
9. Is there anything else that you think might be of interest to others about you? (it may be fun, such as travelling, volunteering at orphanages in your free time etc)
I am a God fearing woman, and am truly blessed for all that I have been given. We are fortunate enough to help others with our local feeding schemes, especially children in need. I love the outdoors. We have recently done the Drakensberg Grotto hiking trail which was exhilarating. A few recreational sports have also caught my attention, such as skydiving and the Moses Mabhida Stadium swing were just some that I have ticked off my bucket list. Mostly… I love spending time with my family!
10. llovo Sugar South Africa is an organisation that is rich in culture and diversity by race,age,gender, how do you manage these differences so that we can work together to eradicate all forms of discrimination in the business?
We have grown up with a diverse culture and so for me, its just treating every person with respect and kindness.

1. What’s your name and what is your role at ISSA?
Rennel Naidoo – Manufacturing Supervisor at the syrup plant.
2. How long have you been with ISSA?
16 years
3. How do you relate to your colleagues and how do you contribute to team work?
I have a bubbly personality and I’m always willing to help in any section of the business. Proactive communication with my team keeps them well informed and ready for what’s ahead.
4. What do you love most about the company?
Illovo is one of the safest and secure companies in the industry at the moment. Illovo also takes care of their people through community initiatives and many staff benefits.
5. What to you are key traits of a good leader?
A person who is hands on and works directly with their team, having good communication skills.
6. What keeps you motivated on a daily basis?
Overcoming the daily challenges is what keeps me motivated! New projects and initiatives is something that I enjoy! The syrup plant has started the speciality sugar lines which has taken off well.
7. What has been the biggest work challenge you’ve faced so far in your current role?
The main challenge is working with old infrastructure and still being part of the food safety scope. However we have good teams that are proactive in making this work.
8. What would you consider as one of your biggest triumphs and achievements achieved in your role?
Coming to this role from the sugar making industry, it was a big change as switching over to syrup manufacturing is a different downstream process.
9. Is there anything else that you think might be of interest to others about you? (it may be fun, such as travelling, volunteering at orphanages in your free time etc)
I love children and have three minions of my own that I take care off. They fill our lives with so much joy and happiness. I love gardening and currently strawberries are on the go at our house.
10. Illovo Sugar South Africa is an organisation that is rich in culture and diversity by race,age,gender, how do you manage these differences so that we can work together to eradicate all forms of discrimination in the business?
It all comes down to communication and how you approach the team. Respect and attitude is what is needed to each team member.

1. What’s your name and what is your role at ISSA?
My name is Rajan Odayar and I am the Stores Supervisor at the Illovo Sugar Syrup Plant in Lower Illovo.
2. How long have you been with ISSA?
I have been with ISSA since April 2018, spaning my service approximately three and a half years.
3. How do you relate to your colleagues and how do you contribute to team work?
I believe that being kind, compassionate and making everyone feel appreciated is important when relating to your colleagues and I use these qualities in team work as well.
4. What do you love most about the company?
There’s a huge opportunity for growth.
5. What to you are key traits of a good leader?
A good leader is one who supports, guides and mentors his team. He is able to listen attentively, give positive criticism and make his team feel involved. He must also take responsibility where needed and set a good example for his team.
6. What keeps you motivated on a daily basis?
Performing my duties responsibly.
7. What has been the biggest work challenge you’ve faced so far in your current role?
My biggest challenge was when we were told by our suppliers that our deliveries are on hold. The challenges were resolved after communicating to the various departments involved.
8. What would you consider as one of your biggest triumphs and achievements achieved in your role?
Ensuring that there is always enough packaging material for the syrup plant operations to run smoothly without any downtime.
9. Is there anything else that you think might be of interest to others about you? (it may be fun, such as travelling, volunteering at orphanages in your free time etc) I am very involved in the sport of darts and currently represent Kwa-Zulu Natal in the South African National Darts Championship, which takes place every year.
10. Illovo Sugar South Africa is an organisation that is rich in culture and diversity by race, age,gender, how do you manage these differences so that we can work together to eradicate all forms of discrimination in the business?
I don’t believe in separation related to race, gender, age, or any other forms of discrimination. I believe that everyone should be treated alike for we are all human beings and are working together for one company, striving for a common goal. You should always treat others as you would like to be treated.

1. What’s your name and what is your role at ISSA?
Samkelo Ngcobo – ISSA Tax Specialist.
2. How long have you been with ISSA?
Just started now, 01 December 2021.
3. How do you relate to your colleagues and how do you contribute to team work? (You may answer this question based on your previous experience)
I try to build a rapport that is not based on work deliverables only. I contribute to the team by ensuring that the deliverables are met and I assist my colleagues where needed.
4. What do you love most about the company so far?
The inclusiveness and my fellow colleagues always being willing to assist. On a side note, as someone who has relocated from Joburg the ocean view is a bonus.
5. What to you are key traits of a good leader?
Encouraging strategic thinking, innovation, action and developing others around you.
6. What keeps you motivated on a daily basis?
I motivate myself by setting achievable daily goals eg. Finish a report, jog 10km or catch up with an old friend.
7. What has been the biggest work challenge you’ve been faced with in your career by far?
Auditing two big JSE listed entities (First Rand Bank and Discovery Group) that both had the same year end.
8. What would you like to achieve in your current role?
Automation of the tax pack.
9. Is there anything else that you think might be of interest to others about you? (it may be fun, such as travelling, volunteering at orphanages in your free time etc)
I started running/jogging in May 2020 and in a year and half I have done 1 200km.
10. Illovo Sugar South Africa is an organisation that is rich in culture and diversity by race,age, gender, how do you manage these differences so that we can work together to eradicate all forms of discrimination in the business?
I am proud to be part of a company that recognises that South Africa is a country that is rich in culture and diverse and this is incorporated in our Illovo’s DNA. It is about the work that a person produces rather than who they are.

This year, the Intra-Africa Trade Fair (IATF) brought together even more professionals under one roof for a full seven days during November 2021 at the ICC in Durban.

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) welcomed Illovo Sugar South Africa as a participant at this fair, which featured professional sessions and speakers, live performances, an unrivalled list of exhibitors and some very special cultural attractions. It was also a chance to meet exhibitors from all sectors and nations around Africa who were presenting their work.

This is the first time Illovo Sugar has attended this prestigious event, and the company has teamed with DTIC with the hopes of showcasing Illovo products in other African countries in the future, particularly in the syrup industry, and hopefully worldwide via countries such as China. Mthokozisi Sibisi, Trade Execution Manager, from the Commercial team said that “We would like to take the business to greater heights and be internationally recognised!”

The commercial team took advantage of this opportunity to promote Illovo Syrup as well as the new brown sugar pack. An estimated 4 500 people visited the Illovo stand, with a significant number tasting our syrup for the first time and expressing an interest in doing business with Illovo in the near future. Mthokozisi added “We do hope this will increase syrup sales because Illovo has gained potential new consumers who have never experienced our syrup before”. Many individuals were thrilled to see and read about the new brown sugar packs, and enjoyed reading the growers stories.

Illovo products have room for growth in the market, and Illovo will be sure to support opportunities like this to showcase and advertise our products. This trade fair gave Illovo the opportunity to meet new people, gain new business and gain new customers.

With the festive season here and many of us planning a well-deserved break or holiday, remember to ensure your homes are secure while you are away, be extra careful on the roads and look after your valuables while on holiday. Crime tends to increase during the holiday season, so be vigilant and stay safe.

• Post boxes can be cleared by a neighbour, family member or friend. Advise your neighbours of your holiday plans and ask them to check on your home and ensure all house windows and doors are locked and alarm is armed
On holiday:
• Be cautious when using ATMs and think twice about shopping in an unfamiliar environment. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or displaying flashy jewellery, watches or cell phones
• Do not leave valuables in shopping trolleys and always accompany children to public toilets
• Place valuables in the boot of the car and do not leave items such as cell phones and wallets out in the open, unattended or on the seat of a car – ensure your car is lock and not remote-jammed by checking the its locked

• Plan travel routes well in advance and tell people about your plans and final destinations
• Always wear your seat belt and see that everyone in the car is wearing theirs Always wear your seat belt and see that everyone in the car is wearing theirs
• Be cautious when driving, especially at night. Avoid stopping in remote areas
• Make sure that your vehicle is in a roadworthy condition before departure. All lights, indicators, windscreen wipers, brakes, steering, and tyres checked before you hit the road
• Do not overload your vehicle
• Stay within the speed limit at all times
• Obey the rules of the road and carry you driver’s license with you
• Maintain at least a two second following distance at low speeds – when driving at high speeds the following distance should be at least four seconds - this distance should be increased at night, in foggy or rainy conditions and when the road is wet
• Avoid distractions while driving and don’t use your cellphone to take calls, or text – be alert at all times!
• Only overtake when it is absolutely safe to do so and do not overtake on double white lines.
• Have a good rest before you embark on your journey and take safety breaks every two hours or 200km.
• Be courteous towards fellow road users - keep your temper and resist the temptation to retaliate
• Do not drink and drive!

• Ensure adequate ventilation at all times
• Sufficient cleaning of frequently touched surfaces or areas
• Good hand hygiene (regular washing and use of sanitisers)
• Wearing of masks at all times (if possible)
• Social distancing and avoid touching and hugging
• Avoidance (if possible) of crowded areas/shops/malls/gatherings/events
• When not feeling well stay home!

We are at the end of another challenging year. COVID-19 has continued to challenge all aspects of our lives and is trying its best to prevent us from returning to normality. On the business side, we were not short of challenges either. Apart from the COVID-19 challenges, we have experienced the unprecedented KZN protest action, which impacted all our lives in very different ways. Overall, as a business Illovo Sugar South Africa has had a difficult year. We ended the fiscal year without hitting our performance and profit targets, and we are already behind on our 2022 first quarter targets.

Whilst the Sugar operations performance continues to be below standard, we are expecting the implementation of the forthcoming off-crop plans to bring a big step change improvement in performance next season. To be successful, we all need to be fully engaged in the work required to successfully turnaround performance.

The strong Downstream (Merebank, Furfural, Syrup and LACSA) business performance continues to be strong and I encourage all employees in these sectors of our business to continue to drive excellence in all spheres of our operations.

As the year draws to a close, let us take a moment to reflect on the challenges we faced, as well as the challenges we still face, and how we plan to overcome them in 2022. I implore all of you to take advantage of this time off to rest, reboot, and return reenergized for 2022, when we will work together to achieve our objectives.

Your mental health is important to us as a company because it affects how you perform at work and, more importantly, because it reflects who you are to your family and community. Although the 16 days of activism ended on December 10th, I urge you to continue to promote the culture of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in your daily life. As men, we are accountable for our women's safety; if you are a perpetrator of this behaviour, seek assistance and allow us to call each other out. Women, you are also accountable for stepping away from situations that put you or our children at risk, for supporting one another, and for moving away from the mentality of criticizing or counselling people who are suffering through it to keep going. People who have lost loved ones and have no one to spend this time with, as well as those who do not have the financial means to provide for their families, face a variety of mental health challenges during the festive season. Remember to check in with your loved ones, and simply look after one another to ensure we remain healthy, motivated, and ready to try again in 2022.

It's also critical to stay cautious throughout the festive season, especially in light of the possibility of a fourth wave and the new variants of Covid-19. If you haven't been vaccinated yet, seek guidance from your co-workers and loved ones on how and why you should. Even outside of the workplace, let us continue to follow the Covid-19 safety protocols, such as wearing masks, social distancing, avoiding super spreader events, and washing/sanitizing our hands frequently. For those traveling long distances this festive season, remember to put safety first at all times. Maintain a safe speed and stay alert on the road. Remember that arriving late is better than not arriving.

Please take note that this will be our final newsletter for 2021 and as of 2022 our newsletter will only be distributed quarterly. Look out for our next newsletter beginning of April 2022!

I wish you, your family and friends a blessed and amazing festive season. May you return in 2022, rejuvenated and well rested, ready to kick things up a notch and make the next year a great success! Together we can do it!!