We Rise Together

Outside the town of Orapa, Botswana, lies a singular mine with some impressive initiatives focused on the surrounding communities. The Orapa mine fully funds two hospitals that provide medical care for mine employees and serve as district hospitals for local neighborhoods. The mine has poured millions into the hospitals and health and welfare programs over the last few years.

The mine is proud to be a part of a Corporate Social Investment program, OLDM (Orapa, Letlhakane and Damtshaa Mines). The program has invested over 4 million pula in community development. “OLDM has always embraced the social and economic responsibility of being a good corporate citizen and this investment is an indication of our resolute and unparalleled commitment to sustainable community development in and around Boteti,” said OLDM Sustainability Committee chairman, Thatayaone Sithole. “Here at OLDM we strive to be the epitome of diamonds for development globally.  The intention is to maintain a profitable business environment and enhance our reputation and the well-being of the communities in which we operate, as well as the country in general. This initiative is pivotal in our endeavor to ensure that we do not leave the mining communities worse off than when the company began operating in their areas.”

Major projects undertaken through the Corporate Social Investment program last year included the adoption of Mokobaxane Primary School. Funds were used in the development of infrastructure including classrooms and an administration block. OLDM also invested in the renovation of Serowe SOS Children’s Village Boys Youth Facility and the Debswana House at the village. Yet another project is an investment in the Ministry of Environment Wildlife and Tourism feasibility study for the development of the Diamond Pavilion. “We remain committed to continue working closely with the Boteti community, to collectively identify sustainable projects that we can support this year and into the future,” Sithole said in closing.

Source: Debswana website

Note: The southern African diamond mining industry is committed to the social and economic development of local communities. The Orapa and Cullinan mines are fine examples of this commitment.