As part of its social labour plan (SLP), Coal of Africa Limited (CoAL), through the Vele Colliery, officially announced the R3,1 million road-paving project to be implemented in Musina.

The sod-turning ceremony was held at the Lesley Manyathela Stadium a fortnight ago. When handing over the project, Ms Florence Dual from CoAL said that the mining company had a responsibility to create meaningful and sustainable economic opportunities outside their mining operation.

She said their SLP had been developed through extensive engagement with the communities and local authorities and was implemented in partnership with the relevant authorities, resulting in a direct, positive impact for these communities.

“June 2015 marked the completion of Vele Colliery’s first five-year SLP. During the five years, the CoAL Bursary Fund produced 35 graduates in the fields of engineering, finance, geology and environmental sciences at a cost of over R11 million. The colliery adopted the Musina Agricultural Youth Project, investing R1 million to electrify the buildings, purchase a tractor and farming implements, upgrade the irrigation and packing shed, and train members of the cooperative. A cooling container was also donated.”

"The colliery has also adopted Renaissance Secondary School in Musina as part of its school-transformation project. Through an investment of R6.5 million, two four classroom blocks were constructed, the school was electrified, fencing was installed, and 24-hour security was provided. Both learner and teaching materials were provided. Today’s sod-turning ceremony is an affirmation that we are serious about empowering our communities."

The mayor of Musina, Cllr Mihloti Ramoyada, said that the initiative displayed that the municipality had a very good working relationship with its stakeholders. She added that their local partners had a role to play in the development of the communities.