In honour of Mandela Day, Impala Rustenburg has distributed 7,425 sanitary towels to 2,472 girls across 13 Impala-supported high schools in its mine communities. In addition, the company celebrated the 26 home-based caregivers it sponsored, in collaboration with Tapologo Hospice, who recently graduated and received their Occupational Certificate in Home-Based Care. These two initiatives further advance Impala Rustenburg’s efforts to improve the quality of life for communities around its operations.
Data from the World Bank Group indicates that an estimated 500 million women lack access to menstrual products. To foster an environment where girls can continue their education without interruption, Impala initiated a menstrual hygiene management project. Throughout the week leading up to Mandela Day, and on the day itself, Impala teams spent 67 minutes at several schools distributing the sanitary towels.
Moses Motlhageng, Chief Executive at Impala Rustenburg, said, “Through this initiative, we aim to make a real difference in the lives of young women by reducing absenteeism, boosting productivity, and minimising health risks and mental stress. We believe in empowering women and girls to actively participate in the economic life of our communities and the mining industry.”
Another highlight of Mandela Day was celebrating the graduation of 26 home-based caregivers. Their training programme was facilitated by Tapologo Hospice, an NPO providing home-based care to people in the Bojanala district living with chronic or life-threatening illnesses. The programme was funded by Impala Rustenburg through student bursaries. This year’s graduates received their certificates — and the essential tools needed for their roles — at a ceremony at the Impala Visitors Centre on 18 July.
For the more than two decades, since Tapologo’s inception, Impala Rustenburg consistently supported this important NPO, providing crucial assistance and funding for its various initiatives.
Steven Blakeman, CEO of Tapologo Hospice, said, “The dedication and diligence of these caregivers is truly commendable and their efforts will significantly benefit their communities. We are deeply grateful to Impala Rustenburg for its long-standing support for Tapologo. It’s through partnerships like these that we’re able to enhance the impact of our work and bring greater benefits to our communities.”
One of the home-based care graduates, Olebogeng Mpipi, shared her appreciation, saying, “This training has provided me with the skills and knowledge to deliver quality care. I am proud to contribute and provide such an essential service to my community.”
Motlhageng concluded by saying, “At Impala Rustenburg, we are committed to supporting our mine communities through our many initiatives. We are honoured to extend our support on a day like Mandela Day, celebrating and honouring Nelson Mandela’s enduring legacy.”
