Mafube Coal, Thungela’s 50% joint venture with Exxaro, has handed over three solar-powered boreholes to the Kleinfontein farming community in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality (STLM), Mpumalanga, benefiting approximately 147 residents. The R3 million water supply project includes the installation of borehole and solar power systems, pumps and water storage infrastructure that will deliver approximately 30,000 litres of water per day.
Tamara Qwatekana, general manager at Mafube Coal, said: “Access to clean, reliable and affordable water is a basic human right and essential to human dignity, health and food security. The project is delivered as part of our Social and Labour Plan commitments aimed at supporting community development in the areas surrounding our operation.”
“The infrastructure we have provided will supply residents of this farming community, largely made up of the elderly and unemployed, with a long term, safe and consistent water supply to support them and their livestock.”
The project was implemented by Pulsar Africa, which was responsible for the installation of borehole systems and supporting infrastructure. Construction activities created approximately six temporary employment opportunities for local community members during the project implementation phase.
The municipality commended Mafube’s investment, acknowledging the role of partnerships in supporting community development. Councillor Mhlonishwa Masilela, executive mayor of the STLM, said: “Collaboration between local government and industry plays a critical role in extending essential services and enhancing the living standards of the residents of STLM. Now that this community has received this infrastructure, we can direct our efforts to other areas without water supply.”
Mafube Coal aims to continue working with local stakeholders to identify opportunities where investments can make a meaningful difference for communities surrounding the operation, way into the future. “This is in line with our purpose, to responsibly create value together for a shared future,” said Qwatekana.
ENDS