Mine boosts business neighbours
DMR Deputy Minister Godfrey Oliphant visits Richards Bay Minerals' (RBM) new business development centre.
HOST community members of heavy minerals mine Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) can now roll up their sleeves and get down to business with the opening of the company’s business development centre.
RBM officially opened the centre with Deputy Minister of the Department of Mineral Resources, Godfrey Oliphant on Tuesday with the aim to help local business owners build their enterprises into successful ventures.
The hub will offer four key programmes – the Sakhisizwe Supplier Development Programme, Sakhisizwe Enterprise Development Programme, Zulti South Capacity Building Programme and the Income Generating LED Programme.
RBM Managing Director Mpho Mothoa stated these platforms will enrich surrounding communities, which remains a priority for the company.
‘No business operates separate from its environment,’ said Mothoa.
‘The health and sustainability of RBM is closely linked to the relationships the company has with the communities which host its operations.
‘Despite some recent challenges, as RBM we will relentlessly focus on ensuring that our transformation agenda is beneficial to our host communities.
‘And the development of local suppliers and host community enterprises is one of the most effective ways of ensuring that the benefits of RBM’s mining activities are directed to its host communities.’
Deputy Minister Oliphant added that despite the negative aspects of mining, the industry is imperative for job creation, enterprise development, economic growth and skills upliftment in South Africa.
‘This country started mining in the 1800s and I’m happy to report we still have another century to go,’ said Oliphant.
‘Although we have seen the good, the bad and the ugly from mines in the past 100 years, today we can see the good with this new centre.
‘It will allow more employment opportunities in the area by developing entrepreneurs.
‘And while mining can be dangerous and have a negative impact on the environment, RBM has been an example for environmental protection and rehabilitation.’
