PROFILE Building
PROFILE Building infrastructure, supporting communities Northam Booysendal has rehabilitated Second Street in Mashishing. quality and functionality. For the duration of the project, the main anticipated challenges such as accommodation of traffic were handled with the utmost professionalism. As part of its Social Labour Plan commitment (SLP), Northam Booysendal rehabilitated Second Street in Mashishing, Thaba Chweu Local Municipality, on the Mpumalanga Highveld. The rehabilitation also included kerbing and sidewalks, to allow for good access to Mashishing High School. The project was solely funded by Northam Booysendal. Project impact Prior to the intervention from Northam Booysendal, Second Street was in a state of severe disrepair, posing dangers to the learners who use it daily. Northam, recognising the urgent need to ensure the safety of the learners as well as community members, decided to rehabilitate the road, underscoring the company’s commitment to the wellbeing and security of the community. The major traffic congestion in the Mashishing residential area highlighted the urgent need for a road upgrade, and, recognising the potential benefits and the community’s demand for improved infrastructure, Northam Booysendal identified a strategic opportunity to invest in the project. This investment also promises to enhance the overall quality of life for residents, contributing to the area’s long-term development and accessibility. The timeline adopted for the project ensured that all aspects of the project were meticulously finalised, guaranteeing the highest standards of Positive relationships To ensure procurement and vendor relationships management, the Northam Booysendal procurement processes were followed. The works were advertised for expression of interest on Northam Platinum Holdings Limited’s Procurement Portal, an on-site tender briefing session was held and a Cross Functional Team (CFT) adjudicated the submissions received. The process was then presented to the Procurement Committee and a local 100% black-owned company was appointed to render the service. By choosing a company rooted in the area, this project not only aimed to improve infrastructure but also fostered economic growth within the community. This approach underscored the importance of empowering local enterprises, creating job opportunities and ensuring that the benefits of such projects are felt directly by the residents. Project benefits The local high school significantly benefited from Northam’s intervention in various ways, demonstrating a strong commitment to the education and development of young people in the community. Where applicable, Northam Booysendal provides resources and assistance to enhance the Mashishing Secondary School’s educational environment. Additionally, learners are encouraged to apply for bursaries offered by the company, which can substantially alleviate financial burdens and provide opportunities for further education. This support not only helps individual students but also strengthens the overall educational fabric of the community, fostering a brighter future for all. ■ LIMPOPO BUSINESS 2024/25 26
Bringing healthcare services closer to the people The donation of four double-cab bakkies to Thabazimbi Hospital by the Zondereinde Community Trust fulfills the promise of bringing services to the most remote rural areas. FOCUS The Thabazimbi Hospital in Regorogile Township was the proud recipient of four Toyota Hilux double-cab bakkies generously donated by the Northam Zondereinde Community Trust (ZCT). This incredible donation signified a giant leap towards enhancing healthcare delivery, particularly in remote areas. The Zondereinde Community Trust, established by Northam Platinum Holdings Limited, is a share ownership vehicle designed to benefit the mine communities, including those within the Thabazimbi Local Municipality. The Trust is mandated to focus on education and healthcare, ensuring that the communities receive essential support and resources. The donation of these vehicles aligns directly with the Trust’s core mission, as set out in its founding deed. The need for these vehicles was initially brought up by Dr Pertunia Kupa, the Head of Thabazimbi Hospital. She explained the challenges experienced by the hospital in providing vital healthcare services with limited fleet to nine outreach clinics, some as far as 100 kilometres away, within the Thabazimbi Municipality. She opined, “this donation offers hope and a healthier future for our community. It will significantly improve our ability to serve and save lives.” Dr Mmabatho Pheyaga, a Trustee of the ZCT, delivered an inspiring speech, emphasising the Trust’s commitment to promoting community health and wellbeing. Her words reaffirmed the shared mission to improve healthcare access for all residents. In the course of her address, she said, “It is more than a transportation solution; it symbolizes a lifeline for countless individuals in need of critical healthcare services. ■ 27 LIMPOPO BUSINESS 2024/25
