There is much activity in Lephalale, near Grootegeluk Mine. With the mine’s expansion comes an equally large need for housing and service delivery. But the area faces an acute shortage of construction skills and local BEE construction companies.

Grootegeluk’s housing project, part of its social labour plan commitment, is a working example of combining different focus areas with infrastructure development. Five ground-breaking new houses were built in Lephalale, in partnership with the Lephalale local government, and 24 local people trained in different building skills. The level of training provided meant these people were immediately able to apply their knowledge.

After the five houses are completed, several enterprises will be established by the 24 trainees, from brick-making to house- and road-building. Exxaro, together with local government and different stakeholders will mentor the new enterprises to ensure sustainability.

All houses were built using eco-friendly materials and appliances as a pilot study for further housing developments. Materials included earth bricks using local soil, solar water-heating systems installed in each house, grey- and rainwater management systems to purify water for re-use and zinc fuel cell batteries to power lights and basic electrical appliances.

These features could help create a way of life in the community that incorporates waste management, recycling and organic gardening to ensure sustainability.