Chrome and vanadium producer Glencore Ferroalloys has launched a R20-million multipurpose community centre in Thekwane, Rustenburg.

The centre, which was jointly developed by Glencore Ferroalloys’ Wonderkop smelter operation and chrome miner Merafe Resources, houses various government facilities, such as the South African Social Security Agency, Home Affairs and South African Police Service, to provide essential services to community members.

The project forms part of Glencore Ferroalloys’ mining and smelting social and labour plan, which is aimed at uplifting the community and fostering sustainable development.

The company sought the input of local community leadership, the Royal Bafokeng Administration (RBA) and the Rustenburg local municipality to ensure the project is being developed with the needs of the community in mind.

The community centre will not only bring essential services closer to communities, but also serve as a hub for an array of events such as recreational and social activities. For example, the centre boasts a sports court to host netball, basketball, softball and soccer games.

An indoor hall, boardroom and courtyard, in turn, provides ample space for gatherings and functions.

Glencore Ferroalloys appointed a youth- and woman-owned contractor called Sue Phalane Trading and Projects to carry out the community centre construction, which speaks to Glencore Ferroalloys’ commitment to female entrepreneur empowerment.

Glencore Ferroalloys CEO Japie Fullard says the community centre is testament to the company’s resolve to embrace change, adapt to the evolving needs of society and prepare its beneficiaries for a bright future.

“This infrastructure investment will create jobs, both directly and indirectly, giving a boost to the economy and injecting vitality into the fabric of the community. This will stimulate economic growth, attracting new emerging business enterprises, fostering innovation and creativity, especially at the dawn of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, a just energy transition, robotics and coding.

“It not only showcases our determination, but also our collective vision for a better tomorrow,” Fullard explains.

RBA infrastructure and development head Kgosana Ntsimane comments that projects such as these play a significant role in fostering growth in communities.