JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — MANN+HUMMEL, the world’s leading filtration specialist, has reaffirmed its dedication to environmental stewardship and community development in South Africa through a significant donation of R100 000 to the non-profit organisation Food & Trees for Africa (FTFA). The contribution underscores the company’s mission to promote sustainable industrial growth while supporting initiatives that drive long-term social and environmental impact.
The donation follows a milestone year for MANN+HUMMEL, marked by the opening of its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Kempton Park, Johannesburg. Officially inaugurated in March 2025, the plant represents a pivotal expansion for the brand on the African continent—serving as both a strategic hub for sub-Saharan markets and a benchmark for sustainable industrialisation.
A Model for Responsible Growth
The Johannesburg facility integrates cutting-edge sustainability principles throughout its operations. From solar energy utilisation and water-efficient processes to the use of biodegradable packaging and comprehensive waste recycling systems, the plant exemplifies the company’s global “3R” approach—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.
“This approach ensures that every stage of manufacturing supports our goal of building a low-impact operation that serves both the planet and our communities,” said Onur Ozyapici, Vice President, Automotive Aftermarket ISMEA at MANN+HUMMEL. “As we expand into Africa, this principle will shape the way we build and operate.”
The new facility, which manufactures premium filtration solutions for Passenger Car, Commercial Vehicle, and Off-Highway segments, has been designed for scalability—positioning it to meet Africa’s rapidly evolving mobility and sustainability demands. By 2035, the company aims for the site to achieve full carbon neutrality.
A Partnership Rooted in Purpose
MANN+HUMMEL’s donation to Food & Trees for Africa reinforces its belief that industrial growth and environmental responsibility must go hand in hand. The organisation—founded in 1991—has become a national leader in food security, urban greening and climate resilience. Its initiatives, including Trees for All, Food Gardens for Africa, EduPlant, and FEED, have collectively transformed communities across the country.
To date, FTFA has planted over 4.7 million trees, trained more than 1 500 farmers, developed thousands of permaculture gardens, and reached more than 17 500 schools and communities.
“In this day and age, it simply isn’t enough for a multinational, such as ours, to set up facilities in a new country,” Ozyapici explained during the donation handover at Automechanika Johannesburg 2025. “We have to ensure that we are socially and environmentally responsible. We want to lead the way in sustainable filtration—not only delivering performance, but building solutions that protect the environment, reduce waste, and support inclusive, long-term progress. Our partnership with Food & Trees for Africa reflects this vision and our shared goal for a greener Africa.”
Cultivating Change Together
Christopher Wild, Executive Director at FTFA, welcomed the partnership, noting its importance for tangible environmental action. “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 & Trees for Africa is essential to translate corporate vision into tangible, lasting impact on the ground.”
Through this collaboration, MANN+HUMMEL continues to demonstrate that sustainability is not just a component of its business strategy—it is the foundation of its global identity. As the company continues to expand across Africa, it is setting a powerful example for how responsible industrial leadership can nurture both people and the planet.
