Diversified mineral resources company Exxaro, through its North Block Complex (NBC) Coal, in Belfast, in Mpumalanga, handed over 20 newly built houses to the community of Siyathuthuka last week.

This formal settlement forms part of the eMakhazeni local municipality and is close to NBC Coal’s operations, which consist of the Glisa, Strathrae, Eerstelingsfontein and Belfast coal projects.

NBC produces 3.3-million tonnes a year of thermal coal for the domestic market, with the mine employing 161 employees and 1 460 contractors and using openpit strip mining methods with continuous rehabilitation, according to Exxaro’s website.

Exxaro provided the funding for the housing project, which is worth R5.4-million. This social and labour plan project was executed in partnership with the municipality.

The project involved community residents, who assisted in the building of their new homes and thereby gained necessary basic construction skills in return. Local construction companies were also appointed for the project, while several NBC Coal employees offered their skills and time to realise the project.

NBC Coal mine manager Lazarus Ramashilabele points out that through transferring technical expertise, project management skills and mentoring to community members and the various construction companies, participants gained valuable insights into the construction industry.

“Not only will it benefit community members when applying for employment opportunities, but our local suppliers will also be more competitive in the future,” he says.

Exxaro sustainability executive head Mongezi Veti adds that, this project is aligned with government’s local, provincial and national housing delivery strategy.

It complements the eMakhazeni municipality’s housing allocation service. “The municipality is currently faced with a housing backlog and Exxaro saw the opportunity to assist with this challenge,” he says.

The work executed on site was equivalent to the employment of 20 people for a year, thereby improving living conditions for 20 other families. Further, Siyathuthuka residents will continue to benefit from having formal, serviced houses, beyond the life-of-mine, according to Exxaro.