Afrimat, AfriSam, and Sephaku Development—collectively known as the Ditsobotla Cement Manufacturers Forum (DCMF)— officially handed over a fully refurbished and modernised Resource Centre at Taletso TVET College in Lichtenburg. The initiative forms part of each company's Social and Labour Plan (SLP) commitments, as approved by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR).
This milestone represents a significant step towards bolstering local economic development and addressing critical community needs.
The project is a testament to the commitment of these leading cement producers to the communities in which they operate and entailed the comprehensive refurbishment of two classrooms, transforming them into a modern resource centre equipped with computers, televisions, cameras, an inverter, and essential furniture. The project also included crucial foundation stabilisation and painting, ensuring the longevity and functionality of the facility.
"It has been a privilege to partner with our fellow industry leaders and government to positively contribute to the Lichtenburg community," stated Esther Teffo, Group Manager: Mineral Resources and Compliance at Afrimat. "Furthermore, Afrimat, as a new player in the cement industry following our acquisition of Lafarge South Africa, is exceptionally proud to hand over this project as a show of good faith towards the community and to affirm Afrimat’s commitment to enhance LED initiatives in the community."
According to Jaco Vermaak, General Manager at AfriSam’s Dudfield Cement operation, "AfriSam is proud to have collaborated with Afrimat and Sephaku Development to bring the Taletso Resource Centre to life. This initiative reflects our shared commitment to education, skills development, and empowering future generations. We believe that access to quality resources is a cornerstone of academic success, and we are honoured to contribute to the growth and development of students at the TVET college."
"At Sephaku Development, we view education as a cornerstone for sustainable socio-economic progress”, said Robert Mathye, Executive Manager – Sustainable Development. “This Resource Centre is more than a refurbished space, it is a beacon of opportunity for young minds at Taletso TVET College. Through our partnership in the DCMF, we are proud to support this initiative, which aligns with our broader mission to empower communities through meaningful and lasting development. We believe that by investing in education and digital access, we are laying the foundation for a skilled and resilient workforce. We thank the DMPR, the Department of Higher Education and Training, and our fellow DCMF partners for their collaboration and shared vision."
The Taletso Resource Centre is a direct response to fundamental needs identified by the Lichtenburg community and forms a core component of the Local Economic Development (LED) initiatives undertaken by the participating companies. The resource centre will provide essential educational and technological resources, empowering local residents and students to access vital learning opportunities.
This collaborative effort underscores the profound impact that can be achieved when leaders in the mining and construction industry work in close partnership with government. By pooling resources, expertise, and a shared commitment to community development, we can create sustainable futures and leave a lasting legacy. It is through such unified efforts that we can truly give back to the communities in which we operate, enabling growth, opportunity, and prosperity.
