Glencore Coal supports community with water initiative project
19 August 2024 - According to the weekly state of reservoirs report by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) as of 13 August 2024, water levels in the Mpumalanga region are decreasing and with this in mind, Glencore Coal announced its support to the eMalahleni Local Municipality in Mpumalanga, by handing over two 13.3 megaliter reservoir water tankers.
The reservoirs report recorded by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) indicated that average dam levels dropped from 91.2% to 90.7% in the province as of August 2024 and continue to drop in the Nkangala District with dams recording declines in water volumes. The water tankers will not only address immediate water shortages but also contribute to long-term water security. The handover ceremony took place in eMalahleni, where representatives from Glencore and eMalahleni Local Municipality (ELM) gathered to witness the handover of the 13000 litre water tankers.
"Assisting local communities with the supply of water in areas that are not accessible, and where there isn't correct infrastructure, is not only a need but a sustainable solution for future generations. We have a good working relationship with the local municipality and we are progressing together by continuously maintaining this relationship, forging forward in the right direction," said Thato Gama, Assistance General Manager for Tweefontein Complex at Glencore Coal.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, MMC for Technical Services, Cllr Busi Hlumbane, expressed their gratitude for the donation of the two water tankers and mentioned that the significant impact that the water tankers will have on the lives of community members.
"Access to clean water is a basic need, and we are committed to supporting sustainable, long-term solutions to the water challenges. This support reflects the commitment to providing solutions that will ensure safe water supply for our communities," said Hlumbane.
These water tankers will serve as a crucial resource for daily water supply, particularly in areas where water scarcity has been a persistent challenge.
"We wish to express a profound and deep sense of gratitude to Glencore. These water tankers will go a long way in fulfilling our constitutional mandate, which is to ensure that our people have access to portable, clean water. The water tankers will boost municipal capabilities to supply to areas that are not connected to municipal water network, which are used for farming and informal communities. Let us work together to keep the facilities running because water is life and the oxygen of sustainable livelihood," said Executive Mayor of eMalahleni Local Municipality, Vusi Nhlapho.
The donation of the water tankers is part of Glencore's ongoing commitment to supporting community development initiatives and promoting environmental sustainability in its host communities. This is one of the many ways in which Glencore aims to make a tangible difference in the lives of community members and contribute to their well-being.