content_image/227768.jpg
Hixonia Nyasulu, chairman 

## Delivering solid shareholder returns 

The board and management of Sasol share an obligation to grow stakeholder value sustainably for the many people around the world who have invested in Sasol. Since September 2008, this has included some 300 000 historically disadvantaged South Africans who have invested their savings in Sasol through the Sasol Inzalo share scheme. Discharging this responsibility has required a careful balance between the prudent management of cash and costs, and delivering growth. 

The results Sasol has achieved in the year ended 30 June 2010 refl ect management’s decisive approach, particularly during the diffi cult economic circumstances of the past two years. Despite the economic turbulence, Sasol has delivered an average return on equity of 24% over the last five years while increasing shareholders’ equity by 80% 

(R42 billion). These numbers illustrate the strong track record of growth and solid financial platform that Sasol has established. 

This solid foundation has allowed us to increase the dividend pay-out this year while maintaining our aggressive investment programme. I believe the dividend growth can be seen as a vote of confidence in the exciting growth prospects of the company. 

In contrast to this encouraging fi nancial performance, however, was a disappointing safety performance. The tragic deaths of eight people working on Sasol’s sites during the year, including two employees of contractors, are of grave concern to us. In addition, there was one service provider fatality at premises leased from Sasol by the service provider, and not under the control of Sasol. I extend my deepest sympathy to their families, colleagues and friends. The company’s recordable case rate (RCR)* 

Sasol’s record of successful innovation will stand the group in good stead as it begins to invest in low-carbon energy technologies. 

was 0,51 in 2010. While this is in line with global standards, it is disappointing that the positive trend in Sasol’s safety performance appears to have levelled out. Safety remains a top priority and I fully support the actions taken by management to address this situation. 

## Delivering on the promise of growth 

The economic resilience of the BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China), has been one of the defining features of the global economy this year. The robust growth recorded in these countries, which are home to more than half the world’s population, continues to support the demand for the range of commodities that Sasol produces. These developments, alongside changes in world energy markets, provide a compelling backdrop to Sasol’s strategy. 

Greater detail on the progress made in executing our strategy is provided in the chief executive’s report and elsewhere in 

<img src='content_image/227768.jpg'>

