Local contractor, Xolani Masango can already envision the positive impact the place of safety being developed by Canyon Coal in Middelburg will make in the lives of young boys. He is the director of Sikonela Mkhweli (Pty) Ltd, a company tasked with refurbishing a property that was bought by Canyon Coal, to provide a centre for young boys facing social challenges.

According to data from Statistics South Africa, adolescents between the ages 10 and 19 face a myriad of challenges such as mental health issues, alcohol abuse and risk of infectious diseases as they go through this important phase of transitioning into adulthood. The centre will provide accommodation for approximately 20 Renovations are progressing well at the place of safety being developed by Canyon Coal youngsters experiencing various social difficulties and assist them with psychosocial interventions like counselling. “It’s a profound experience to work on a project that has a great impact in the community,” says Xolani.

This social initiative is situated near Canyon Coal’s decommissioned Hakhano and Singani sites and forms part of the company’s Social and Labour Plan (SLP). An administrative block with four offices and two toilets, as well as an upper story with two bedrooms, a bathroom and a kitchenette has also been added. The main house features bedrooms and bathrooms, a kitchen, and a living room area. A significant amount of work was subcontracted to local suppliers.

This includes rubble collection services, a paint supplier, and building and plastering sand supplier among others. “We have contracted quite a few things to local suppliers because we understand the importance of working with the community, so we all get a piece of the cake,” Xolani says. Canyon Coal invested over R3.7 million in the project and partnered with other stakeholders including the Department of Social Development and the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality. “The place of safety will be a flagship project in the Nkangala District; therefore, it is a great opportunity to be part of this initiative,” says Xolile Mankayi, Canyon Coal’s social licensing manager