Our Social Responsibility Programme

Roche subscribes to a principle of sustainable development as the basis for sustainable forward-looking business activities, and has an extensive and very specific social responsibility policy in place.

We aim to exhibit good corporate citizenship in South Africa and understand that social responsibility goes beyond “mere donations.” We aim to empower communities that we undertake to assist. In this context then, we dedicate not only financial, but also human resources behind our Social Responsibility Programme. Although Roche has several projects in various provinces, the biggest project is the Transnet Phelophepa health train initiative which spans 12 years. Phelophepa (pronounced Pay-low-PEP-puh) is a Sotho and Venda word that means “good clean health.”

The train brings welcome aid to remote regions of South Africa . The 16 well equipped coaches, 14 full-time specialists and 40 students deliver medical aid to our poorest communities. The rendering of comprehensive healthcare is facilitated and managed by nursing and medical staff.

Recognised for their extensive work on the train, Roche was given the honour of the clinic – The Roche Health Clinic – being named after them. Roche has also been awarded accolades for this sustainable project.