Nestled in the heart of the Mpumalanga province's coalfields lies Secunda, a town with an intriguing name that aptly means 'second'. The moniker isn't just a random choice but speaks to its very essence, history, and formation in South Africa's industrial landscape.
Secunda stands out as the second Sasol extraction refinery that was adept at producing oil from coal. The first, Sasolburg, is located approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles) to the west. The birth of Secunda can be traced back to the challenging times during the oil crisis of 1973-74. In the quest for alternative energy sources, Sasol saw an opportunity and leaped into action.
In 1974, Sasol (Transvaal) Townships Limited, a subsidiary of Sasol Limited, was entrusted with the monumental task of establishing and nurturing the town of Secunda. While scouting for an ideal location for the Sasol complex, the conundrum was whether to merge the existing towns of Evander and Trichardt. The sheer scale and speed of the intended development, coupled with the potential strain on financial and administrative resources, led to the pivotal decision: Trichardt and Secunda would merge to form one unified town under the name 'Secunda', leaving Evander to maintain its individuality.
The town's formation was swift. By 28 June 1976, the first town area was proclaimed, and that very year, Secunda welcomed its inaugural resident, Mr. Etienne Smith. Smith's new home, Tuyshuys, had historical significance as it was the original farmhouse of Goede Hoop - the farm on which Secunda stands today.
Secunda's industrial importance did not go unnoticed. The African National Congress targeted one of its refineries for two bombing attempts. While the initial attempt in 1980 failed, the subsequent one achieved partial success. The events surrounding the bombings turned Patrick Chamusso, once falsely accused, into an ANC activist. The experience transformed Chamusso, who played a crucial role in the second bombing as the ANC continued its campaign against South African industrial targets.
An aerial view of Secunda offers an insightful glimpse into its unique town planning. The town is sectioned into residential quarter cells, bordered by primary routes and lush green strips. This clever layout ensures that each cell experiences only internal traffic, promoting ease of movement and safety.
The very essence of Secunda is intertwined with its coal-rich land and the waters of the Grootdraai Dam. The dam was integral in deciding Secunda's location, ensuring that Sasol had an ample water supply for its operations.
Secunda is more than just a town in Mpumalanga; it's a testament to South African resilience, innovation, and adaptability in the face of global challenges. Whether it's the ingenious town planning or its significance in South Africa's energy landscape, Secunda stands as a beacon of industrial ingenuity.