POWERING PROGRESS: DRA GLOBAL & WONDERFONTEIN MINE FUEL SUSTAINABLE CHANGE IN GENERALSDRAAI

In a meaningful act of empowerment and sustainable development, DRA Global, in partnership with Wonderfontein Mine, strengthened water resilience in the Generalsdraai community through the donation of a generator, lithium battery, and petrol canister on 26 May 2025.

As winter sets in and the community’s reliance on solar and wind energy faces seasonal limitations, this backup system arrived at a critical time—ensuring continued access to clean water. The donation enhances the community’s innovative three-pronged water system that integrates solar, wind, and now generator power—a rare model in rural infrastructure.

The timing carried additional significance, coming just before the Junior Mining Indaba (27–28 May), where DRA Global served as the main sponsor. At the event, Shammy Luvhengo, CEO of Ndalamo Resources, delivered a keynote on “Effective Stakeholder Engagement and Consensus: A Strategic Approach to Sustainable Growth in the Junior Mining Sector.” His address emphasized practical strategies to overcome industry challenges and foster trust—principles clearly reflected in the Generalsdraai initiative.

Community Affairs Manager Thanyani Nthangeni noted the donation was part of a broader, community-led strategy. “The community has proactively established both technical and legal teams to manage infrastructure and land ownership. Today’s support directly strengthens the technical side,” he said. He also shared that the land transfer process is advancing, with legal advisors exploring a Community Trust model to ensure long-term ownership.

The handover was led by Bruce Hutton, who presented the items to Hon. Executive Mayor Clr Muhle Mashele. Mr. Hutton highlighted the philosophy behind the partnership: “Our commitment to stakeholder engagement means listening first, then acting decisively in ways that align with community priorities and our operational strengths.”

Mayor Mashele praised Wonderfontein Mine for its continued investment: “Generalsdraai is becoming a blueprint for community-led infrastructure success. From Christmas hampers in December to school handovers in February, and now this—each step reflects real progress.” She encouraged residents to protect these resources and uphold the spirit of collaboration.

“Thank you to DRA Global and Wonderfontein Mine. Your work here matters. I hope this partnership continues to grow and that your expertise can support the municipality more broadly,” she added.

This collaboration reflects a growing shift in South Africa’s mining sector, where meaningful community engagement is not just about compliance—but about building sustainable, inclusive futures. As highlighted at the Junior Mining Indaba, Generalsdraai is a strong example of what’s possible when industry and community walk the path together.