Ford SA builds first global bakkie featuring Madiba’s signature to support charity

A unique one-off Ford Ranger Wildtrak X carrying the signature of Nelson Mandela has been donated to the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund to support fundraising efforts.

Built by Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa, the bakkie is the first Ford vehicle and the first bakkie globally to feature Madiba’s signature.  

Built locally

The Wildtrak X was produced at Ford’s Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria and features Mandela’s signature stitched into the interior.

It is intended as both a tribute to his legacy and a fundraising tool for the organisation.

“The symbolism of Madiba’s official signature reflects the spirit of the partnership between Ford and the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund,” said Neale Hill, President of Ford Motor Company, Africa. 

“As a company, we believe in generational impact and, like both the Fund and Madiba himself, we share values of sustained effort to ensure sustainable impact. What a privilege it is for us to carry this signature on one of our vehicles and an even greater privilege that we can play a part in driving South Africa forward,” added Hill.

The vehicle will be sold, with funds directed towards community programmes by the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund.

A century of production

Ford has maintained a manufacturing presence in South Africa for more than a century, with the Silverton plant supplying both local and export markets. The facility is a key part of the company’s global production network. 

In addition to this once-off vehicle, Ford has also provided 19 vehicles to support the Fund’s work across the country, enabling programme teams to reach communities and deliver services.

“This is about honouring Madiba’s legacy by investing in the well-being of children. For more than a century, Ford has been part of South Africa’s story. We deeply believe businesses like ours have a responsibility to contribute meaningfully to the communities they serve,” said Hill.

Fundraising support

The Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, established by Mandela himself, continues to focus on child protection and development initiatives across the country. 

“Thirty years after Madiba founded the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, our mission remains as urgent as ever,” said Dr Linda Ncube-Nkomo, chief executive officer of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund. 

“Partnerships like the one we share with Ford demonstrate how the private sector can play a meaningful role in protecting children and strengthening communities.”