A group of Metsimaholo (Sasolburg) residents in the Free State today picketed against Sasol in the area, claiming that the giant energy company is overlooking locals for jobs and procurement opportunities.

The protest started in the morning and the police had to be called in to restore order after traffic was blocked, creating chaos in the northern Free State area.

A community activist who identified himself as JJ Sessing alleged that despite operating within Metsimaholo and benefiting significantly from its resources and infrastructure, Sasol continues to sideline the very communities it should be empowering.

Instead of offering direct employment opportunities to local residents, he claimed, Sasol is relying heavily on labour brokers who consistently recruit workers from outside the municipality.

He says this not only deepens local unemployment but also breeds resentment and social instability as locals watch outsiders occupy jobs that should rightfully contribute to the economic upliftment of their own communities.

“The issue extends beyond employment. Sasol’s procurement practices also fail to prioritise local businesses. Instead of supporting Metsimaholo-based enterprises and helping them grow into sustainable suppliers, Sasol continues to outsource procurement contracts to companies from other regions. This undermines the development of the local economy, stifles entrepreneurship, and perpetuates cycles of poverty and exclusion,” Sessing claimed.

He added that the most pressing concern, however, remains unemployment.

“Metsimaholo faces a severe joblessness crisis, and yet one of the largest economic players in the area is not contributing meaningfully to address this. This situation is not just an economic issue—it’s a social injustice that calls for urgent intervention and a renewed commitment to responsible corporate citizenship.”

A request for comment by Sasol regarding the allegations was sent to Alex Anderson and he is yet to respond. His comment will be added as soon as it is received.