Orapa, Letlhakane, and Damtshaa Mines (OLDM) recently supported the Boteti District Council with the rehabilitation of the Letlhakane dumping site to address hazardous waste management.

The site was in poor condition due to improper waste disposal, rendering it inaccessible and causing a health hazard. OLDM assisted with machinery to help push waste deposited along the entrance and scattered within the dumping site to the prepared cells and push back rubble accumulated at the entrance.

Boteti District Council Principal Environmental Officer Kitsiso Kontle commended Debswana for continuously supporting their district to deliver on its mandate. He said the landfill was in a deplorable state, and causing a health hazard to those trying to access it. “The rehabilitation of the landfill by Debswana has really helped put the landfill in a good condition and exemplary for waste management in the district,” he added.

Debswana's efforts in rehabilitating the Letlhakane dumping site are a testament to their commitment to sustainable waste management practices. This initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, which aims to reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.

The rehabilitation of the Letlhakane dumping site involved significant logistical support from OLDM, including the provision of machinery to manage waste more effectively. This intervention not only improved the site's accessibility but also mitigated health risks associated with improper waste disposal.

Debswana's proactive approach to waste management serves as a model for other mining operations and communities worldwide. By prioritizing environmental health and safety, Debswana demonstrates how corporate responsibility can lead to substantial improvements in waste management practices.

The success of the Letlhakane dumping site rehabilitation project underscores the vital role of community engagement and support in environmental initiatives. Principal Environmental Officer Kitsiso Kontle's commendation of Debswana's efforts reflects the positive impact of such collaborations. When corporations and communities work together, they can achieve significant milestones in environmental sustainability.

Debswana's commitment to improving waste management practices is ongoing. As the company continues to support the Boteti District Council and other local entities, our efforts will contribute to the broader goals of sustainable development.