In an effort to help alleviate water shortages, Barberton Mines has assisted with drilling two boreholes in the Shiyalongubo area. Mine spokesperson Soya Magida said the area has grown over the years from a small settlement into a full-fledged township.

According to Magida, the community, located within the City of Mbombela, faces several challenges related to rural development, service delivery, and land governance. A critical issue is the lack of reliable, clean water, with residents sometimes forced to wake as early as 04:00 to collect minimal daily supplies.

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“Assisting local communities with water supply in areas that are not easily accessible, and where infrastructure is lacking, is not only a need but a sustainable solution for future generations,” he said.

“We have a good working relationship with the Shiyalongubo community and are progressing together by continuously maintaining this relationship and moving forward in the right direction.”

Magida added that the donation is part of Barberton Mines’ ongoing commitment to supporting community development initiatives and promoting environmental sustainability in its host communities.

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“This is one of the many ways in which the mine aims to make a tangible difference in the lives of community members and contribute to their well-being,” he said.