The contribution is a joint effort between Glencore South Africa's two major businesses, Coal South Africa and Ferroalloys, who have adapted their existing social investment programmes to address the changing social needs of communities due to COVID-19.

According to Glencore, many of its operations are located in remote areas with limited public health care systems. With COVID-19 being an even greater threat to such communities, the company says that it continues to "work closely with local municipalities and government departments to identify the key needs in each community and provide the most effective response".

"As our host communities continue to deal with challenges raised by this pandemic, it remains our priority to assist with initiatives that truly make a difference in their lives," says Murray Houston, CEO at Glencore Coal South Africa. 

"We are very proud of the efforts we have carried out so far and over the next few months, we will continue to roll out more initiatives, together with our partners, to help our communities through this pandemic," adds Houston.

According to Glencore, funding has been contributed to various initiatives that include:
  • the provision of screening and testing in communities
  • the supply of water tanks in water scarce communities
  • access to e-learning programmes to support learners while schools remain closed
  • mass fabric mask production and distribution
  • supply of food aid
  • mass distribution of sanitisers and infrared thermometers
  • mobile toilets, and
  • the roll-out of Wi-Fi hotspots.
In addition to this, Glencore has also made provision of hospital equipment, such as extra beds and protective personal equipment for health workers, in order to assist local hospitals and clinics.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has affected South Africans from all walks of life and we have made major commitments to help boost the government's efforts and ease the pressure felt by citizens during this tough period," says Glencore Ferroalloys CEO Japie Fullard.

"Now more than ever, our communities need access to necessities such as clean water, hygiene products and medical equipment to protect them from infection and we will continue to do our part to provide these amenities where possible," concludes Fullard.

For more information, visit www.glencore.com. You can also follow Glencore South Africa on Facebook, Twitter or on Instagram.