One of the world’s largest global diversified natural resource companies, Glencore has vowed to donate more than R23m in funding, goods and services to assist communities across South Africa who have been affected by the lockdown.
The mining company has been working closely with local municipalities and government departments to identify key needs in each community and provide the most effective response. Many of Glencore’s operations are based in remote areas where there are limited public healthcare systems.
“As our host communities continue to deal with challenges raised by this pandemic, and true to our ethos of progressing together, it remains our priority to assist with initiatives that truly make a difference to their lives,” said Murray Houston, CEO of Glencore Coal.
The funding was contributed towards supplying water tanks in water-scarce communities, access to e-Learning programmes to support pupils, mass fabric mask production and distribution, food aid, mass distribution of sanitisers and infrared thermometers, mobile toilets and the roll-out of Wi-Fi hotspots. Glencore’s two big businesses, Coal South Africa and Ferroalloys have also adapted their existing social investment initiatives to help address the pandemic.
Glencore has also donated hospital equipment such as extra beds and protective personal equipment (PPE) for health workers. “We are very proud of the efforts we have carried out so far and over the next few months we will continue to roll out more initiatives together with our partners to help our communities through this pandemic,” said Houston.
Japie Fullard, CEO of Glencore Ferroalloys said: “The Covid-19 pandemic has affected South Africans from all walks of life, and we have made major commitments to help boost government’s efforts and ease the pressure felt by citizens during this tough period. Now more than ever our communities need access to necessities such as clean water, hygiene products and medical equipment to protect them from infection”
