Sexwale, Sahara put the wheels of growth in motion

Issued by MicroZone for Sahara
Johannesburg, 29 Mar 2007

Sahara Computers, a local supplier of information and communications technology, and Tokyo Sexwale, executive chairperson at Mvelaphanda Holdings, has launched a transport initiative for the benefit of its staff.

Mvelaphanda Holdings has a 12.10% stake in Sahara as a direct result of the broad-based BEE deal brokered with Sahara and Afripalm Consortium in 2006.

In March, Sexwale, together with representatives of Sahara management, officially launched the initiative and unveiled the first of what will eventually develop into a fleet of Sahara buses.

Addressing management and members of the Sahara Forum, the company's staff representative body, at the company's headquarters in Midrand, Sexwale expressed his joy at having the opportunity to visit the premises, engage with staff and introduce what he believes is a unique and valuable opportunity.

"This is a clear opportunity offered to you by a company that continues to invest in its people and its country," said Sexwale at the opening. "I urge you all to use this gift wisely and contribute towards the growth of this company. Transport is difficult for some people and we don't want to be held back by logistics... please do not miss the bus."

The Sahara bus is available to members of staff and will be used to transport people to and from work, covering areas like Soweto, Thembisa and Alexandra.

Sahara plans to monitor the initiative with the aim of introducing more buses.

"Sahara is acutely aware of its corporate social responsibility and extending the benefits of this programme to individuals and communities across South Africa. We firmly believe an investment in our staff is a direct investment in the growth and development of the company. It is our hope that, through initiatives like the Sahara bus service, we encourage a higher level of interest in the well-being of workers in general," comments Gary Naidoo, deputy MD of Sahara.

Sahara Computers

Established in 1997, Sahara Computers assembles and markets PCs and peripherals through a global distribution network that covers both established and emerging markets.

The company is an official distributor and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for a variety of top international vendors, including AMD, Creative, Delta, Epson, Foxconn, Intel, Lexmark, Maxtor, Microsoft, Samsung, SMC Networks and Symantec.

The core focus of Sahara's operation is the consistent and effective supply of affordable, reliable and accessible technology.

This operation is managed via the company's head office in Midrand, Gauteng - considered a central business hub. The Sahara business network stretches across South Africa to include Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth.

The company has successfully extended its reach to key regions and emerging global markets including Dubai, China and India. The Sahara brand is also well known across Africa, with established company presence in countries like Botswana, Kenya, Mozambique and Namibia.

Sahara's vision is to become a truly global brand and premier IT supplier throughout Africa.

Sahara is also an accredited member of the Proudly South African campaign as well as the SAVANT global SA brand awareness initiative. Corporate social responsibility is a key priority for the company and it continues to contribute towards projects and programs aimed at individual and community upliftment.

The name Sahara is widely associated with the development of sport, including soccer, cricket, rugby and motorsport. This is considered a significant area of business development by the company.

As a result of hard work, commitment and unwavering dedication to its brand, Sahara has formed several strong alliances with key role players, stakeholders and representative bodies.

Most recently Sahara announced the signing of a groundbreaking sponsorship and technology supply agreement with Mamelodi Sundowns, a top ranking soccer club competing in South Africa's Professional Soccer League.

The sponsorship is underpinned by the provision of communications infrastructure and mobile technology - including laptops, notebooks and digital lifestyle technology - and signals Sahara's commitment to the club and South African soccer in general.

Effective marketing and generating awareness are significant elements of the company's ongoing marketing campaign.

Under the direction of Gary Naidoo, appointed as Deputy Managing Director of Sahara in December 2005, the company retains a focus on a number of growing market sectors including corporate, government, digital lifestyle and mobile and wireless.

For more information on Sahara Computers, its products and services, visit www.sahara.co.za.

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