Social Investment
To date, Batla Minerals' social investment initiatives have been targeted near our most robust project-in Lesotho. The following initiatives have been managed by Alluvial Ventures, our wholly owned subsidiary operating in Lesotho.
Socio-economic Development
Alluvial Ventures has established two community-led trusts, each receiving a portion of the company's gross revenue. Alluvial Ventures is a co-sponsor with Letseng to both community trusts.
- Alluvial Ventures Workers Trust (AVWT)
AVWT is funded to distribute funds, over-and-above normal employment benefits to its entire workforce at the mine. Trustees are elected by workers from the Mosotho worker base. The company has no influence over distribution of AVWT's income, other than to ensure compliance with applicable laws.
- Khubelu Valley Development Trust (KVDT)
The KVDT was established to improve the general wellbeing of communities surrounding the Letseng mine and to invest in infrastructure projects that provide sustainable benefits. Community members identified an opportunity to host tourists in the area, and subsequently built seven ecotourism chalets along the Khubelu River as well as a community centre. The chalets are ideal for trout fishing guests and for hikers looking for overnight accommodation. Guide-led pony trails are also being planned to take guests to the escarpment. For more information, see Chalets In The Sky.
Fifty percent of the chalet revenue goes to the community trust, and 50% to a local entrepreneur who manages the operation. Alluvial Ventures has a representative on the board of trustees with the specific intent to mentor this project to become an independent, profitable business.
Supply Chain Development
Alluvial Ventures has invested in two specific entrepreneurial companies to try and strengthen the local supply chain and improve the long-term sustainability of area businesses. Our investment in both companies includes management mentoring, financial capital, and long-term service contracts.
- Lucky's Kitchen is a 100% black-owned catering company that was established with an initial loan of R35000 to Lucky, a local, small-scale caterer. Mentoring was focused on the long-term goal of establishing a fully independent food services provider. Alluvial also offered Lucky a long-term service contract, which allowed for expansion of personnel and equipment.
The initial loan has been fully repaid and the business now provides 240 balanced meals, daily. The company employs seven permanent staff, and uses part-time staff from the area as needed.
- Moloi's Transport is a 100% black-owned transportation provider. Lehase Moloi, the founder, was also mentored by Alluvial's senior leaders to develop basic business systems. Alluvial extended a long-term transportation services contract and provided Moloi with a double axle truck, which is the backbone of its small fleet of trucks. Moloi currently employs 2 permanent staff.
Infrastructure Improvements
Travel in the Letseng mine region can have serious challenges. Roads are poor year-round, and in the winter, frequent snow and ice storms make travel almost impossible. When Alluvial Ventures first began working in the Letseng area, we recognized the damaging affects of isolation on local villages and improved access roads to benefit their daily lives and commerce.
New Initiative in Process - AIDS orphanage
Alluvial Ventures is currently working with Kingdom of Lesotho government leaders to build a 400-bed AIDS orphanage in the capital, Maseru. An architect has been selected and plans are being drawn. The company will contribute to the design and building costs, as well as providing ongoing operating support.
