In 1994, China FAW Group entered the market of South Africa, which made FAW the first ever and the only Chinese auto brand in South Africa at the time. The construction of FAW Coega plant was finished in 2014. Following that, the factory began operating, signaling a new chapter for FAW in expanding localized operations in South Africa.

FAW has generated a significant number of jobs over the last three decades and is dedicated to accelerating the development of local employees' skills and professional expertise. Furthermore, FAW South Africa consistently offers professional and skills training, resulting in the cultivation of numerous high-quality local talents proficient in automotive production techniques, marketing, and management.

Charlton Ngwenya (right) is troubleshooting a truck with his team members.

Charlton Ngwenya joined FAW South Africa in 2007, started as a quality inspector, in 2012 was transferred to the assembly line, to become a station leader. After the kickoff of FAW Coega Assembly Plant, he was transferred to the plant and become a section leader, managing three sections. He is very cooperative, high skilled, and totally devoted to the work. The plant takes him as a key employee, sends him to take part in technique and management training. In 2024, he becomes the rework supervisor. His colleagues respect him on his commitment and hard work. He attributes all his achievements to China. “Chinese colleagues are hardworking, generous and intelligent. I motivated myself to strive like them. ”He said, “my life is getting better and better, for FAW gives me the double guarantee in life and career, I’m thankful to FAW!”

Patrick Malumba is adjusting an engine.

Patrick Malumba became a part of the FAW South Africa team in 2010. Starting as an assembly operator, he quickly gained expertise through technical training provided by the company. In 2014, he was chosen to work at the FAW Coega plant within the adjustment section. In this new role, he participated in various training programs and obtained certification of diesel mechanics. By 2019, he had become the head of the group, and by 2024, he was promoted to supervisor of adjustment team. Patrick has expressed his satisfaction with working at FAW, emphasizing the comfort and respect he feels.

Jean-Jacques Mwanza (middle) is guiding other employee to operate on site.

Jean-Jacques Mwanza originates from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Upon his arrival in South Africa, he actively sought job opportunities. In 2009, he received an offer from FAW South Africa and subsequently assumed a position at FAW Coega plant. His competence and skills grew in tandem with the factory's development. Jean-Jacques progressed from being a technician to a station leader, section leader, supervisor of online/offline, and eventually, the senior supervisor responsible for managing the entire workshop. "I have collaborated with numerous Chinese enterprise management personnel and gained valuable knowledge from them. I arrived here with nothing, but now I have a family, a lovely wife, and beautiful children. I am truly grateful for FAW's efforts to enhance my life. I am extremely happy."

At the 30th anniversary ceremony of FAW entering South Africa held in 2024, Harris Moodley was honored for his great contributions.

At FAW South Africa, Harris Moodley, the first employee of the plant, started off as a technician and then progressed through the ranks to become the foreman, workshop manager, technical manager, and is now the homologation manager in charge of vehicle testing based at FAW South Africa Head Office. During the 30th anniversary celebration of FAW entering South Africa in 2024, Harris Moodley was recognized for his significant contributions. Despite receiving lucrative job offers from competitors in recent years, Harris Moodley turned them down, stating, "FAW's products keep improving each year. I can gain advanced knowledge and techniques from these improvements, which enable me to conduct testing for SABS. Working at FAW helps me realize my personal value and gives me a strong sense of achievement. I plan to continue working at FAW until retirement."

FAW as a brand has not only focused on development within South Africa but has also ensured that along the line of plant and product development, was invest into the growth of employees across all business functions and operations.

FAW is a leading global manufacturer of quality passenger cars, trucks, and buses. Established in 1953, the company is China’s oldest and largest automotive group. Annual sales exceed three million units.

| Editor: Duying
| Initial Review Chen Duohua
| Second Review: Liu Shumei
| Final Review: Li Xiang