Handover of the Badplaas Water Treatment, Tjakastad Maths and Science Centre and Chief Dlamini Pavilion Projects by Nkomati Nickel Mine

African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) and Norilsk Nickel, joint venture partners in Nkomati Nickel Mine today proudly host the handover of three community projects in the Badplaas area. The three projects which include the refurbishment of the Badplaas Water Treatment Works, the building of the Tjakastad Maths and Science Centre and the construction of the Chief Dlamini Pavilion, were identified by Nkomati in conjunction with municipalities and traditional leaders, after appearing in the municipalities’ Integrated Development Plans as unfunded and yet important projects.

The handover ceremony will be attended by The Premier of Mpumalanga, Mr David Mabuza, The MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Mr Madala Masuku and the Executive Mayor of Chief Albert Municipility, Councellor Busi Shiba together with management representatives from ARM, Norilsk Nickel and Nkomati Mine.

The Badplaas Water Treatment Works

The Badplaas Water Treatment Works was constructed at a total cost of R4 million and was identified as an urgent project as a result of Badplaas’ enormous water supply challenge. Prior to refurbishment of the water treatment plant Badplaas received poor quality water and the Dlamini Community only received water three times a week in a seven day cycle.

Refurbishment of the plant has improved water supply to the Dlamini Community from only three days, to water supply every day. In addition the quality of the water supplied to both the Badplaas and Dlamini Communities has also improved significantly.

The Tjakastad Maths and Science Centre

The Tjakastad Maths and Science Centre was constructed at a total cost of R400 000 and was motivated by the lack of mining and other industry qualified people in the communities surrounding Nkomati. Maths and science are essential for a career in engineering and therefore Nkomati Mine undertook to assist by funding this project. The math and science centre was provided with 25 computers (installed with the Plato-Maths & Science Live Program), a maths and science educator and an administrator appointed by the mine.

The Chief Dlamini Pavillion

A pavilion constructed at a total cost of R500 000 was built in response to a request made by Chief Dlamini to Nkomati Mine to sponsor the construction of decent facilities to be utilised by the Chief and members of the community during their annual celebration and various other events. The pavilion was also equipped with furniture, 100 guest chairs, a fridge, stove and microwave oven.

ARM Senior Executive of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Steve Mashalane said, �The communities surrounding Nkomati Mine are important to the mine and its joint venture partners. The water treatment plant, the math and science centre and the Chief’s pavilion are just a few of the contributions we are making to improve the lives of the people living in the communities surrounding our mine. We remain committed to the upliftment and empowerment of communities throughout South Africa �I would like to thank our joint venture partner Norilsk Nickel, Nkomati Mine management team, the leaders of the local municipality and the respective traditional leaders for their valuable contributions in making these initiatives a reality.�

For more information please contact:

Jongisa Klaas
African Rainbow Minerals
Office: 011 779 1507
Email: jongisa.klaas@arm.co.za