For RBM, the tangible impact of its socio-economic upliftment projects is evident in the profound changes witnessed across communities – often leading to improved livelihoods in areas where local municipalities may not have the capacity. An example is the R21m Mbonambi Reservoirs project, located within the Mbonambi Traditional Authority under King Cetshwayo District Municipality at Umfolozi Local Municipality, which aimed to improve and sustain water supplies within the region.
“Water is a critical component for socio-economic development, energy and food production, healthy ecosystems, and human survival,” says Bheki Nowele, General Manager of Communities and Corporate Relations at RBM.
Access to clean water, proper sanitation, and hygiene are closely connected. Without clean water for essential needs like energy and food production, communities are forced to use untreated wastewater for irrigation, leading to water-borne diseases. This project has brought significant economic benefits to the Mbonambi community and the surrounding region.
Furthermore, the project has helped to unlock local economic development by enabling collaboration between RBM and local Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMME)”.
Collaboration between the main contractor and SMMEs to support the project resulted in several jobs during construction. The community now has sustainable access to fresh water for drinking, cooking, growing food and much more.
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