Sasol’s record of successful  innovation will stand the group  in good stead as it begins to  invest in low-carbon energy  technologies. Hixonia Nyasulu, chairman Delivering solid  shareholder returns Delivering on the promise  of growth 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. (R42 billion). These numbers illustrate the  strong track record of growth and solid  financial platform that Sasol has  established.  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%  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)*  Greater detail on the progress made in  executing our strategy is provided in the  chief executive’s report and elsewhere in  annual review 2010  •  business review  •  chairman’s statement 23 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. 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. 