Caledonia pumps US$1,5 million into community projects

VICTORIA Falls Stock Exchange (VFex)-listed gold mining group, Caledonia Mining Corporation, says it channelled more than US$1,5 million towards community development projects in 2023 as part of its corporate social responsibility.

The group operates its flagship Blanket Mine in Gwanda in Matabeleland South province and recently acquired additional gold mining assets in Matabeleland North.

As part of its strategy, the company allocates funds to seven key community investment themes or pillars aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report for 2023, Caledonia said it was committed to enhancing the overall health and well-being of the local community as part of its core operations.

“Each year, we make significant investments across seven identified strategic community investment themes or pillars aligned with the SDGs to catalyse development, encourage the growth of a vibrant self-sufficient economy and drive socio-economic upliftment,” reads part of the report.

“In total, we invested more than US$1,5 million across these strategic pillars during 2023.” According to the report, US$261 500 was invested in health projects, upgrading local health facilities, including the provision of medical equipment and refurbishment of clinics.

The funds supported health outreach programmes by providing essential medical services to remote areas and improving maternal and child healthcare, said the company.

To enhance the education system, US$437 500 was invested with part of the funds being used to build new school infrastructure, provide scholarships to underprivileged students and enhance teacher training programmes, it noted.

“One of our education investments during 2023 was the renovation and upgrade of the Sitezi Secondary School. We had previously undertaken a project to provide electricity to the school, during which we noted the poor overall conditions of the school and decided to take action,” reads the report.

“By improving the condition of the school, we aim to improve educational outcomes by enhanced learning through the provision of better facilities, to encourage more students to attend and to help with the retention of teachers at the schools.”

An additional US$337 400 was invested in community investment pillars and events, allocated towards administrative support and community engagement activities.

These investments ensured the smooth execution of community projects and fostered community engagement through cultural and social events that brought people together and reinforced the sense of community.
Furthermore, US$179 300 was invested in environmental initiatives, promoting sustainable practices and conservation efforts, the company said.

These included funding reforestation projects, community awareness campaigns on environmental protection and the implementation of waste management programmes.

About US$112 600 was invested in conservation efforts, including protecting wildlife habitats and supporting local conservation organisations.

The funds were also used to implement anti-poaching measures and promote eco-friendly tourism, which not only helps in conservation but also provides alternative livelihoods for the local population.

Towards charitable initiatives, US$88 600 was invested to support vulnerable groups in the community.
The investment assisted orphanages, elderly care centres and families affected by natural disasters.

The company also funded community-driven initiatives aimed at improving living conditions and providing immediate relief to those in need.

A total of US$147 000 was invested in women and youth empowerment to create opportunities for economic independence and skills development.

The funds also supported vocational training programmes, entrepreneurship workshops and small business grants.
The initiatives targeted women and youth in the local community, helping to reduce unemployment.-chroncile