ERG Africa’s Frontier hands over solar boreholes to local communities in the DRC

Her Excellency, Mrs Nathalie-Aziza Munana, Minister of Social Affairs, also took part in the ceremony before visiting the Frontier SA site.

Frontier SA is dedicated to enhancing living conditions in neighbouring communities through funding various pivotal community development projects. Mr Nicolas Treand, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ERG Africa, emphasised, “Supporting this initiative for improved access to drinking water aligns perfectly with ERG Africa’s mission to develop impactful projects that sustainably benefit local populations.”

In compliance with the social obligations outlined in the DRC mining code and regulations, Frontier SA allocates 0.3% of its annual turnover to DOT-Frontier, a fund designated for community development projects as part of its corporate social responsibility. As of 2023, Frontier SA has disbursed US$ 5 878 303.26 to DOT-Frontier out of a total provision of US$ 9 273 000.26 earmarked for the cumulative period spanning 2018 – 2023.

Addressing the attendees, Her Excellency Madame Nathalie-Aziza Munana, Minister of Social Affairs, remarked, “I have just heard something here that deeply moves me and makes me very proud. Since Monday, I have travelled across Haut-Katanga and Lualaba, and I am particularly pleased to have heard precise figures in Frontier's speech. I want to congratulate the person who delivered the speech for Frontier. I am encouraged to support them because I perceive genuine transparency in their work. The national deputies present here, like me, have grasped the importance of what we have heard. This is a quality I have recognised in Frontier for many years. Often, companies do not share their figures. You, residents of Sakania, are blessed to have a company as transparent as Frontier. I also commend their efforts because they have mentioned several other initiatives, such as the rehabilitation of the General Hospital. By undertaking these projects, Frontier fully embraces the vision of the Head of State, who places the people at the centre of his priorities with the slogan ‘People first.’”

Through DOT-Frontier, 10 community development projects are currently underway in Sakania for 2024, primarily focusing on health, education, agriculture, and infrastructure sectors.

Speaking at the event, Mr Patient Kabela, Senior Social Manager, highlighted the significance of strong citizen engagement, stating, “It is vital to address the most pressing community needs. By involving various local communities in the project selection process, we foster ownership and ensure the sustainability of achievements, crucial for enduring benefits to current and future generations.”

The DOT-Frontier management mechanism is designed to foster community involvement and ensure transparent governance. It is administered by a specialised body comprising 12 members representing local communities, grassroots organisations, government entities, and Frontier SA. Oversight and accountability are maintained through regulatory supervision by the Ministries of Mines and Social Affairs, supported by their respective specialised departments.

Mr Eric Kitambala Mabel, President of DOT-Frontier, commented, “The relationship between DOT-Frontier and Frontier SA is positive, with the latter fulfilling its commitments and obligations. We encourage and urge them to continue on this path for the benefit of the local communities.”

Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/environment-sustainability/29082024/erg-africas-frontier-hands-over-solar-boreholes-to-local-communities-in-the-drc/