RUSTENBURG HERALD - RUSTENBURG - In its aim to continuously uplift and contribute to the progress of communities near its operations, Glencore Ferroalloys is proud to announce the successful completion and handover of the Modderfontein substation in Kroondal, near Rustenburg.
This infrastructure investment is aimed at benefitting the people in the community of Kroondal.
The project was initiated to eliminate the persistent issues of unscheduled power trips caused by the aging electrical infrastructure in the Ikemeleng and Kroondal areas.
These frequent disturbances resulted in extended power shutdowns and ongoing maintenance challenges, subsequently affecting local communities and businesses.
“As a responsible mining operator, we at Glencore Ferroalloys value the well-being of our communities and part of catering for their needs also means taking care of the environment they live in. For this reason, we are commited to investing in socio-economic activities that deliver a better quality of life for our communities. We are delighted to honour this significant investment and to cement the relationship with stakeholders such as the doorstep communities, local municipality and the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy,” said Conroy van der Westhuizen, Glencore Ferroalloys Chief Corporate Social Responsibility Officer.
The Modderfontein Substation handover was met with immense praise from members of the Kroondal community. Expressing his gratitude for the infrastructure upgrade, the MMC of Infrastructure for Rustenburg Local Municipality Rampoo Phiri welcomed the - construction of the substation and associated electrical reticulation infrastructure and the positive impact it will have on the community.
“We are extremely proud and grateful to Glencore Ferroalloys for the Social and Labour Plan (SLP) project as our communities stands to reap great benefits from this much-needed infrastructure upgrade. We look forward to working with Glencore in the future and embarking on more SLP projects that will vastly improve the lives of the people in this community,” he concluded.
The project has not only enhanced the skills and expertise of the local workforce, it has also generated employment opportunities in sectors such as construction and logistics. This holistic approach to community development aligns with Glencore’s dedication to being a responsible corporate citizen, working hand in hand with the community of Kroondal to build a brighter and more prosperous future for all. Projects like these fits in well with Glencore’s ‘Just Transition’ principles.
“As the Western Chrome Mine, it is a privilege and an honour to have partnered with the Rustenburg Local Municipality as a means to make a significant difference in the community. During the construction of the sub-station, we were also able to provide jobs for the community as well as contract local SMMEs where needed.This kind of support is what we mean when we speak of progress together and we hope the benefits of this progress will continue long after our mines have ceased to operate,” said Western Chrome Mine Engineering Manager, Lawrence Mashilane.
The infrastructure improvement is set to have a ripple effect throughout the community, leading to increased energy efficiency, reduced emissions, and improved power supply reliability within areas like Modderfontein, Renosterfontein, Wigwam, Kroondal and Dinnie Estate.
