Glencore’s R23m donation to curb COVID-19

South Africa – Mining giant Glencore in South Africa has responded to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call for corporates in the country to play an active role in assisting distressed communities affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The company will donate over R23 million in funding, goods, as well as services to communities across the country in response to some of the societal needs that have risen during the lockdown period.

The contribution is a joint effort between Glencore South Africa’s two major businesses, Coal South Africa and Ferroalloys who adapted their existing social investment programmes to address the changing social needs of communities due to COVID-19.

“As our host communities continue to deal with challenges raised by this pandemic, and true to our ethos of progressing together, it remains our priority to assist with initiatives that truly make a difference to their lives. We are very proud of the efforts we have carried out so far and over the next few months we will continue to roll out more initiatives together with our partners to help our communities through this pandemic,” said Glencore Coal South Africa chief executive officer (CEO) Murray Houston.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has affected South Africans from all walks of life. We have made major commitments to help boost government’s efforts and ease the pressure felt by citizens during this tough period. Now more than ever our communities need access to necessities such as clean water, hygiene products and medical equipment to protect them from infection and we will continue to do our part to provide these amenities where possible,” said Glencore Ferroalloys CEO Japie Fullard.

Glencore press release extracts, 28 May 2020