THE Umbogintwini Industrial Association (UIA) recently brought stakeholders together at AECI’s scenic Umbogavango Nature Reserve for its annual feedback session.

This much-anticipated event was attended by community members, industrial staff, tenants, local leaders, schools and anyone touched by AECI’s operations.

Also read: Schools take part in AECI Mining’s programme

Ewan Alanthwaite, an Umbogintwini Industrial Complex (UIC) representative, emphasised the importance of open dialogue.

“Our goal is to maintain consultation and communication with the communities affected by our operations. We aim for continuous safety, health and environmental performance improvement,” he said.

The session included updates on various aspects of the industrial complex, including a detailed presentation of the sulphur production plant’s operations. AECI also shared insights into its extensive social investment programmes in the surrounding communities.

Since last year, AECI has invested over R5.9 million in areas like Ezimbokodweni, KwaMakhutha, Umbumbulu and others, positively impacting over 10 000 individuals. Alanthwaite outlined focus areas such as education, environmental sustainability, literacy, child welfare and women’s empowerment initiatives like baking and gardening.

Some standout projects include:

• Environmental Education: Programmes at Umbogavango Nature Reserve’s Environmental Education Centre.
• Educational Support: Mathematics and science mentorship through Protec and the Educate Cinema Programme in partnership with Primestars.
• Solar Solutions: Installing solar panels in schools with libraries.
• Essential Supplies: Desks, stationery, shoes, and calculators for schools like Kusakusa Primary, Magama Primary, Zuzumqhele High and KwaMakhutha High.

Nomali Msomi, AECI’s community liaison officer, hailed the collaboration as a cornerstone of progress.

“The continued partnership between UIC and its stakeholders proves the incredible results we can achieve when we work together,” she said.

The event underscored the importance of maintaining strong relationships with the community while addressing environmental and social challenges. As UIC continues its work, these efforts reflect a model of industrial progress that values people, education and the planet.

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