RBM socio-economic projects aiming to transform community livelihoods

Globally, mining companies are increasingly recognising the importance of investing in socio-economic upliftment projects that authentically drive sustainable community transformation and empowerment.

This is not just about ticking boxes for corporate social responsibility or legal compliance. Rather, it’s about contributing meaningfully to local communities.

“Our focus is on sustainability, striking a balance between economic, environmental, and social outcomes,” says Bheki Nowele, General Manager of Communities and Corporate Relations at RBM. “We understand that the sustainability of our operations is intrinsically linked to the wellbeing of the communities we operate in.”

Key to this approach is the company’s Social Labour Plan (SLP), which plays an important role in promoting employment and advancing the social and economic interests of host communities.

For RBM, the tangible impact of its socio-economic upliftment projects is evident in the profound changes witnessed across communities – often leading to improved livelihoods in areas where local municipalities may not have the capacity.

An example of this is the Mbonambi Reservoirs project, located within the Mbonambi Traditional Authority under King Cetshwayo District Municipality at Umfolozi Local Municipality, which aimed to improve and sustain water supplies within the region.

“Water is a critical component for socio-economic development, energy and food production, healthy ecosystems, and human survival,” says Nowele. “The project has helped to unlock local economic development by enabling collaboration between RBM and local Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMME).”.

Collaboration between the main contractor and SMMEs to support the project resulted in 39 jobs during the construction phase. The community now has sustainable access to freshwater for drinking, cooking, growing food and much more.

The centre is situated at the kwaMbonambi Industrial Zone next to the Slovo Township, providing convenience and easy access to community members reducing travel costs. During the construction phase of this project, as many as 86 jobs were created and occupied by local community members.

For RBM, which has been operating in the KwaZulu-Natal region for 45 years, social investments are a demonstration of shared value, contributing to the long-term sustainability of the communities.

“Whether it’s a reservoir, a drivers’ testing centre or timber processing plant, a project that meets an authentic community need is more likely to succeed,” concludes Nowele.