Kokfontein access road and culvert bridge reconnects communities

Despite the Northern Cape’s arid climate, rivers still flood during the rainy season and, at times, isolate communities from one another. When that happens, goods and services cannot be delivered, parents cannot go to work and learners often cannot attend school.

This is why UMK assisted the community of Kokfontein Village, just outside Kuruman in the Joe Morolong Municipality, with the construction of a new access road and culvert bridge to deliver access across. The company, together with the mayor, Ms Dineo Leutlwetse-Tshabalala, and Chief Maleho Seboko, recently unveiled the structure. 

Flash flooding

UMK’s Lance Auckett said seasonal flash flooding had turned an old crossing into a complete barrier. “This section of the river was impassable and the village was literally cut off,” he said. “The access road and the bridge now brings together families. It gives people the opportunity to go to town to carry on with their normal business.”

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Chief Seboko added that the new community asset will make a tangible difference to daily life.

Auckett said the project carried real meaning for UMK’s approach to community development. “UMK is very proud to have built this access road and bridge as part of our sustainable development programme,” he said. “It is extremely important for UMK to be visible in the community and to make a difference. This, in partnership with municipalities and local government. Importantly, it is intended to improve the lives of the people that stay in this community.”

Improving the lives of the community

The access road and culvert bridge forms part of UMK’s broader sustainable development commitments outlined in its Social and Labour Plan. Terence Mamabolo, UMK’s Socio-Economic Development Manager, said the Kokfontein project is symbolic of how the company views its role. “We intend to complete projects that do not just create temporary solutions, but rather set in place infrastructure that will benefit generations of the communities we serve,” he said. “Social dividends and a legacy must remain long after mining activity has ended.”

Mamabolo said other recent projects include an early childhood development centre, a fully equipped primary healthcare clinic, and a community soup kitchen. The company also recently celebrated the graduation of several entrepreneurs who completed a UMK-sponsored incubation programme to help strengthen and grow their businesses. “It is one of the most satisfying aspects of my role at UMK,” said Mamabolo. “Few joys are as remarkable as seeing and experiencing the difference that a company can make for fellow citizens.”

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Category: Press