True to its promise of progress together, Glencore continues to roll out initiatives that will improve the quality of life for communities near their operations. On the 9th of June 2021, Glencore Ferroalloys’ Kroondal Mine handed over a renovation project completed at Kroondal Primary School in Rustenburg. The project to the value of R6.5 million is aimed at creating a more conducive learning environment for the pupils at the school. 

As part of the Western Chrome Mines Social and Labour Plan, the refurbishments to the school were made in 3 phases; installation of a perimeter fence to enhance safety at the school, Construction of a GreensSource™ soccer field which also functions as a water source for the provision of portable water to the broader community and construction of an ablution facility towards the promotion of health, respecting human rights and human dignity.

Vulela Makuni the Mine Manager at Kroondal Mine says this handover was an important way to demonstrate the mine’s commitment towards upholding human rights and human dignity in communities near their operations. “The refurbishments at the primary school are close to our hearts because we are passionate about investing in the youth of our country especially when it comes to their safety, personal development and education.” he said. Situated in Ikemeleng, Kroondal Primary School  caters for the education needs of over 836 leaners from the community.

Elias Sello Moroane the Principal of Kroondal Primary School thanked the mine for its support, saying this was an investment in the future of the learners at the school, as well as the community at large. “We are so grateful for what Kroondal Mine has done for our school. This support will go a long way in ensuring that our learners look forward to being at school which will in turn improve their overall educational experience. What we are particularly excited about is our soccer field which is not only important for the development of our students but will help us provide clean water to the people in this community” he said. 

The handover was attended by representatives from Glencore, the Department of Education, the School Governing Body and the School Management who all celebrated the positive impact the initiative would make in the community.

“Glencore does not shy away from its intentions to create prosperity in our communities and this can only be realised through meaningful influence and change in the lives of communities around our operations. Education is particularly important in transforming lives and capacitating both learners and educators. As a mine we will continue to explore other initiatives that are conducive to the learning environment.” said Conroy van der Westhuizen, Chief Corporate Social Responsibility Officer at Glencore Ferroalloys.