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This is achieved through relationships mining companies build with the people whose lives and lands are intertwined with their operations. Across the continent, a growing number of mining firms are proving that genuine investment in community well-being is not just ethical - it’s strategic.

Mining remains one of Africa’s most powerful economic engines, yet it also carries a unique responsibility. Every mine operates in the heart of a community that bears both the benefits and the burdens of extraction. When those communities thrive, operations enjoy stability, strong local partnerships, and a resilient social licence to operate. When they don’t, even the most technically sound projects can grind to a halt.

Through targeted programmes focused on education, clean water, and local employment, Valterra Platinum is building lasting partnerships with host communities. “When host communities grow alongside us, everyone benefits - and our operations gain legitimacy that can’t be bought,” highlights a company representative. 

In a strong demonstration of commitment to the well-being of its communities, Valterra, through its implementing partner Right to Care NPC, handed over vital medical equipment to 11 healthcare facilities in the Mapela Local Area earlier this month. This initiative, part of the mine’s Social Labour Plan 3, goes beyond compliance – it’s about empowering communities with essential equipment to improve access to health care to sustain healthier lifestyles.

Beyond its impact in supporting the wider community, the handover marked a significant step in supporting the workforce, most of whom come from surrounding areas, reinforcing Valterra Platinum’s purpose of unearthing value. “This initiative is part of the heartbeat of Valterra Platinum. A healthy community thrives because people can work, earn a living, and enjoy healthier lifestyles,” says Zuki Poswa.

The mindset aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which prioritises inclusive growth and sustainable development. Mining companies, with their financial reach and infrastructure networks, are uniquely placed to accelerate these continental goals - transforming resource wealth into human capital and long-term prosperity.

As Kwame Addo-Kufuor, President of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, puts it: “Minerals may be beneath the ground, but the mining industry’s success lies above it - in the people and communities who make it possible.”

Across Africa, the message is clear: companies like Valterra and their peers are redefining what responsible mining looks like. By investing in people, they are not only strengthening their own futures but helping build a more resilient and equitable continent - one where mining’s greatest legacy may not be what’s taken from the ground, but what’s left behind.

Valterra Platinum at MI26

Valterra Platinum is one of the world’s leading integrated producers of platinum group metals (PGMs) with a primary listing on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and a secondary listing on the London Stock Exchange.  With a portfolio of outstanding long-life mines and proven processing assets, it responsibly and safely mines precious metals and associated co-products from rich mineral resource endowment and processes the PGMs and co-products at its smelting and refining operations located in South Africa and Zimbabwe. 

Its fully integrated value chain is supported by marketing hubs in London, Singapore and Shanghai to deliver tailored solutions for our customers. Valterra will continue to be disciplined in its capital allocation, integrating sustainability into everything it does, to support the company’s investment in its mining and processing capabilities, market development activities to grow and commercialise new demand segments, and continue to make a meaningful difference to the development of the communities around its operations and return consistent and superior returns to shareholders.