There is a deep acknowledgement at Kumba Iron Ore that small businesses in South Africa are critical drivers of the economy and job creation. Given its economic footprint Kumba is well positioned to provide an enabling and facilitative environment to support small business and to provide the kind of mentorship required for successful entrepreneurship.

Orion Mineral’s commitment to the development of the Prieska Copper-Zinc Project goes beyond the revival of a mine. The company is passionate about reigniting the economy of the Northern Cape.

The company has engaged in intensive community relations during the past three years and has focused on equipping the community with training, education and readiness for the direct and indirect employment opportunities that are likely to arise as the mine is developed and ramped up.

This year Orion Minerals offered free introductory mining familiarisation short courses to community members within the Siyathemba Municipality. Running over three months in 2019, the company offered residents in Prieska, Marydale and Niekerkshoop who had completed their grade 12 the opportunity to attend a five-day course. The programme has successfully been completed by 290 participants and raised public awareness of the mining industry and the opportunities the industry creates.