16 Mar 2016

In their commitment to improve the lives of the community where they mine diamonds, Debswana Jwaneng mine through the Diamonds of Hope initiative have donated P150 000 to former Matsha senior school students who were involved in a road accident that claimed eight lives late last year.

Speaking during the Charity Gala dinner, Jwaneng mine general manager, Mr Albert Milton said even though government has taken full responsibility to assist the former students and their families, different stakeholders and the community at large should also pledge their support to the students during the difficult time they are facing.

He explained that as a way of showing compassion to the affected former students and their families, they will give them hope to continue pursuing their dreams even though such tragedy befell them.

He said when different stakeholders and the community come together to show love to those who are in need, not only does it bring a sense of hope, but the gesture also carries with it motivation, unity and change for the better.

Mr Milton applauded the mine’s business partners for their pledges despite being informed within a short period of time. He said their support to the idea of donating to those affected during the accident showed the spirit of togetherness which he described as desirable in community development and the country at large.

“The accident occurred when the global markets are not favourable to the mine industry, but this doesn’t stop us from showing that we are a compassionate, just and caring nation as well as living to our policy of show we care,” he said.  

For his part, Diamonds of Hope chairperson, Mr Nicolaus Ematang explained that the newly formed organisation is aimed at showing hope to those in need that they can shine like the diamonds which are mined in their home country regardless of  the life circumstances that they face.

He explained that the idea of donating to the former students was only established two months ago after seeing that the Jwaneng mine and its business partners have not yet contributed to helping those that were affected during the accident. 

Mr Ematang thanked all the companies that supported the idea, explaining that the gesture will go a long way in helping the victims in adjusting and persuading their dreams in their new life.

The chairperson said going forward, Diamonds of Hope initiative will continue in identifying other communities that need help and called  for the support of the business community and the public at large in the quest to changing people’s lives.

When receiving the donation, chairperson for Kweneng District Disaster Management Committee, Ms Boingotlo Ngaka thanked the mine and its business partners for their monetary support explaining that as the victims are attending rehabilitation and getting life skills, the donation will also help them to make life easier for them to realise their dreams.

She assured the contributors that funds will be used well and encouraged the mine to continue to support those in need as it gives hope to such vulnerable communities.

The Charity Gala dinner was held under the theme, A Compassionate and Caring Nation; Show We Care. ENDS