[Garatau Mine, Limpopo – 18 July 2021] South Africa-focused platinum developer, Nkwe Platinum and its sole shareholder the Zijin Mining Group, a multinational mining group, donated 400 blankets and 400 food parcels to its mining communities around the Garatau Mine today in honour of Nelson Mandela Day.
In line with the company’s enterprise development and inclusive procurement strategies, Nkwe Platinum ensured that all food parcel supplies, blanket embroidery and delivery services were sourced from local enterprises within the communities. Blankets and food parcels were then distributed to the elderly members of communities in Garatau, Maandagshoek, Hoepakrantz and De Kom.
“Ethical corporate social responsibility and our communities’ wellbeing are some of our top priorities,” says Mr. Zhiyu Fan, Managing Director and CEO of Nkwe Platinum Limited.
“We believe that the development of enterprises is closely related to the sustainable development of communities. By embarking on local and inclusive procurement initiatives as well as local enterprise, supplier and youth empowerment, Nkwe Platinum hopes to contribute to long-term and sustainable economic growth for the communities. Additionally, we hope that our donation has a positive impact for our community senior citizens during the ongoing Covid pandemic.” Adds Fan.
The processing capacity of Garatau is anticipated to average 3.6 million tonnes of ore per annum, once full capacity is achieved in a few years’ time. The life of mine is estimated to be in excess of 29 years and once fully operational will employ some 2500 people.
Mining operations at Garatau have commenced with the construction of the box-cut, which will make way for the decline shaft development towards the end of this year.