Upon receiving a request for assistance in June 2023 from local health authorities, Glencore Ferroalloys says it took swift action to address the longstanding problem of the Tlhabane Community Health Centre's radiology section.

This was due to a malfunctioning X-ray machine that severely impacted medical services at the centre, according to the company. 

Recognising the urgent need to restore proper healthcare services, the company says Glencore Ferroalloys responded promptly to the call for help.

The situation at the Tlhabane Community Health Centre was dire, with patients undergoing extended waiting periods and having to travel to distant facilities for essential X-ray services, which resulted in significant treatment delays, Glencore Ferroalloys adds. 

This daily struggle was particularly worrying for elderly patients who had to endure prolonged waits for their examinations, consequently causing congestion at the Job Shimanka Tabane Provincial Hospital. 

As part of its commitment to uplift the community, Glencore Ferroalloys says it not only donated a state-of-the-art X-ray machine but also completed the renovations of the radiology rooms to ensure compliance with standards and readiness for patient care. The total investment for this initiative amounted to just under R 2.5-million, with most funds allocated towards acquiring the new X-ray machine. 

"We are proud to have been able to make a meaningful difference within the community by addressing a critical healthcare need. By investing in essential medical infrastructure close to R40-million over the last five years, we aim to improve the quality of life for residents and contribute to the overall well-being of the community," says CEO of Glencore Ferroalloys Japie Fullard.

Glencore Ferroalloys says residents will now have better access to necessary medical services directly in their own neighbourhood thanks to the installation of the X-ray equipment and renovations to the radiology facilities.

Ultimately, this will result in faster diagnosis and treatment by eliminating the need for daily transfers to distant medical facilities. By ensuring that people and families in the community receive prompt and efficient urgent medical care, enhanced radiology services will not only improve healthcare outcomes but also their general quality of life, adds the company. 

"Glencore Ferroalloys' kind donation to our community's healthcare system has our sincere gratitude. The addition of a new advanced X-ray machine and the remodelling of our radiology facilities represent a significant advancement in our capacity to offer vital medical services to Tlhabane's community," says executive mayor of Rustenburg Local Municipality Sheila Mabale.

"We applaud Glencore's dedication to improving the well-being of our community and anticipate the beneficial effects this investment will have on our people's lives," Mabale concludes. 

For more information, visit www.glencore.com. You can also follow Glencore Ferroalloy on Facebook, LinkedIn, X or on Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of contributor