Thungela’s Goedehoop Colliery handed over a new borehole and JoJo tanks as part of the mine’s Social and Labour Plan (SLP) commitments and ablution units to replace unsafe pit latrines as part of their Corporate Social Investment (CSI) projects. These facilities are both aimed at restoring the dignity of residents of Ward 4 and the Driefontein and Schoeman Farms, in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality.
Tman Mphokane, general manager at Goedehoop Colliery, said: “Access to water and sanitation is fundamental to healthy and everyday living. Without this infrastructure, communities cannot function, and families face enormous challenges. It is for this reason that we embarked on this projects that aim to improve the dignity, health and quality of life for residence of this community.”
These projects were handed over to the residents of the Driefontein Farm to help with provision of a consistent water supply for surrounding households. Additional JoJo tanks were supplied at Schoeman Farm, with the municipality committing to ensure that the tanks are filled up going forward. Together, these upgrades will go a long way in improving the well-being of residents, contributing towards the Sustainable Development Goal of provision of Clean Water and Sanitation.
It is reported that in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality, only 45.5% of households use flush toilets, but almost the same number, 47.6%, still rely on pit latrines. A further 2.4% use bucket toilets, and another 2.4% still use open bush areas for sanitation. Only 48.1% of households rely on water trucks as a main source of water – with a further 8.5% relying on bought or delivered water.
The Steve Tshwete Local Municipality welcomed the project and acknowledged its contribution to improved basic services. “This investment is a meaningful step forward restoring the dignity of residents, improving hygiene, and safeguarding groundwater sources in the area,” said Councillor Mhlonishwa Masilela, Executive Mayor of the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality. “Access to clean water and dignified sanitation is fundamental to the health, safety, and wellbeing of our residents. We value Goedehoop Colliery’s partnership and contribution, which is sure to make a lasting and tangible difference to our communities.”
“These facilities will strengthen essential services provision in host communities and reflect our support for socio-economic development in areas where we operate. This underscores our purpose to responsibly create value together for a shared future,’ said Tman.
ENDS