Thungela’s Goedehoop Colliery has completed the construction of a new cafeteria facility at the Mhluzi Industrial Park in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality (STLM). The new cafeteria will serve businesses operating in the industrial park, strengthening local economies and contributing to the broader revitalisation of the area.
Goedehoop Colliery invested R4,8 million in the facility as part of its Social and Labour Plan. This investment is a direct response to the priorities outlined in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality’s Integrated Development Plan (IDP), which identifies infrastructure development in local economic zones as key to stimulating entrepreneurship and job creation.
Tman Mphokane, general manager at Goedehoop Colliery, said: “Our focus is on building platforms that enable local economic development, and this investment supports small businesses in host communities by creating a space where they can thrive and grow - contributing to the long-term resilience of the community.”
In delivering the project, Thungela prioritised the use of suppliers from host communities, advancing its approach to shared value through local procurement. These include Meedu Trading who were appointed as the principal contractor, Syncthor Consulting, who provided professional services, and Blaq Square Interior Design, a beneficiary of Thungela’s enterprise and supplier development programme Thuthukani, who led the interior design scope. Eight small, medium-sized enterprises (SMMES) from the host community were subcontracted, and seven residents were temporarily employed during the construction phase of the cafeteria.
Cllr, Mhlonishwa Masilela, Executive mayor of STLM, said: “This is exactly the kind of partnership that is needed. Infrastructure like this creates a tangible platform for small businesses to succeed, and it signals confidence in our local economy. We appreciate Thungela’s commitment to aligning with our development priorities and investing in projects that serve our community long after construction is completed.”
The cafeteria now stands as a vital amenity within the industrial park - positioned to support day-to-day operations, serve tenants, and stimulate business activity in the zone.
“We are deliberate about aligning our efforts with local development priorities and creating opportunities that have a lasting impact. By partnering with local suppliers and investing in shared growth, we’re building stronger, more inclusive local economies. We believe that real progress happens when investments are made with purpose and partnership,” added Tman.
ENDS