Mpuma to get R7.5 Billion Poverty Investment

from All Africa

BuaNews (Tshwane)


By Bathandwa Mbola
Nelspruit

BHP Billiton Energy Coal South Africa has invested R7.5 billion to help Mpumalanga fight unemployment and poverty.

The Douglas-Middleburg Optimisation Project is aimed at developing and revamping new mines in the area, and is expected to employ 5 500 different contractors to project sites.

Economic Development and Planning MEC Craig Padayachee said this investment would surely put the province on the road to deliver a better life for the people of Nkangala and the province as a whole.

"The project will bring hope to many of our people and the economy of the province.

"With an investment of R7.5 billion, it is clear that BHP Billiton wants to leave a mark as a company that made a difference to the people of the province," said MEC Padayachee.

Once completed, areas such as Middleburg, Witbank and its surroundings will undoubtedly enjoy the benefits of a better and increased access to economic opportunities and job creation.

"The mining industry has been making a significant contribution to the economy growth in the province," he said, adding that the mining sector has remained steadfast on the path to ensure that the province takes advantage of the wealth of our lives of the people to the better.

Coal mining dominates the mining industry in this province. Most of the collieries in the province are concentrated around the towns of Witbank, Middleburg, Ermelo and Secunda.