RBM’s Open Day kicked off with an electrifying dance competition, setting the stage for a day filled with entertainment, education, and community interaction. The youth of Esikhaleni seNkosi battled it out on the dance floor, with the winner earning the coveted prize of a bar fridge to take home. This lively start paved the way for a memorable event.
As promised, the day offered a plethora of entertainment options, but it also served as an opportunity for education. Inside the hall, community members were introduced to the various activities and operations of the mine through interactive stalls. Representatives from the human resources and procurement teams were on hand to provide insights into the company’s workings, fostering a deeper understanding among attendees. The mining process itself was showcased, shedding light on RBM’s operations.
Mr. Werner Duvenhage, Managing Director of RTIT Africa Operations of Rio Tinto Richards Bay Minerals, emphasized the importance of community involvement in the Zulti South project. Addressing concerns raised by the communities of KwaDube and KwaMkhwanazi, he underscored the benefits of allowing RBM to continue the project. Job opportunities, business partnerships, and community development were highlighted as key advantages. Duvenhage assured the community of RBM’s commitment to working closely with them and fostering mutual growth.
In addition to the day’s festivities, RBM ran a competition through various radio stations, engaging with the wider community. One of the winners was Minenhle Mhlongo, a 21-year-old electrical engineering student who expressed hope of securing employment opportunities with RBM. Four lucky winners were awarded bar fridges for their participation, adding to the excitement surrounding the event. This outreach initiative demonstrates RBM’s dedication to its operating communities, showcasing their support through initiatives like scholarships, learnerships, and partnerships with local businesses. RBM aims to be seen as more than just a mining company, embodying their slogan, “RBM: We are so much more than mining.”
