Sibanye-Still Water Strengthening South Africa’s local mining supply chains

Lekau Group, a small mining services company, was once on the brink of collapse. Overwhelmed by project costs and struggling with cash flow, the future looked bleak. But a lifeline came in the form of Sibanye-Stillwater’s Supplier development program.

“We were at a crossroads,” recalls Itumeleng Lekanyane, CEO of Lekau Group. “Without additional funding and support, we risked significant business impact and loss.”

Sibanye-Stillwater, a global mining and metals company, has made a conscious effort to uplift the communities where it operates. Through its Supplier development program, the company is not only driving economic growth but also fostering sustainable livelihoods.

“The support we received was invaluable,” says Lekanyane. “Not only did it help us overcome financial challenges, but it also equipped us with the skills to grow our business sustainably.”

Lekau Group’s journey is a testament to the program’s effectiveness. With financial support and business skills training from Sibanye-Stillwater and its partner, Phakamani Impact Capital, the company was able to secure new contracts and expand its operations.

Sibanye-Stillwater’s vision is to create shared valueand by empowering local businesses, the Group contribute to the overall development of the community.

Sibanye-Stillwater’s program aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8 and 9, which focus on inclusive economic growth and innovation. By investing in local businesses, the company is contributing to a more equitable and sustainable future.

Beyond Lekau Group, the program has had a far-reaching impact. Over 1,000 individuals have received training, leading to the creation of thousands of jobs. Millions of dollars in loans have been disbursed, empowering SMMEs to invest in their businesses and expand their operations.

A training session under the Sibanye-Stillwater’s Supplier Development Program

To ensure maximum impact, Sibanye-Stillwater has adopted a holistic approach. The program includes:

• Skills development: Offering business accelerator programs, mentorship, and coaching to equip SMMEs with the necessary tools for success
• Financial support: Providing loans and funding through initiatives like the CEO Enterprise Development Fund to help SMMEs grow and expand
• Procurement opportunities: Prioritizing local suppliers and creating pathways for them to participate in the company’s supply chain

By measuring key indicators such as job creation, local procurement spend, and the number of SMMEs participating in the program, Sibanye-Stillwater is able to track its progress and identify areas for improvement. The company’s commitment to continuous improvement ensures that the program remains responsive to the evolving needs of the community.

Sibanye-Stillwater has been a participating company of the Global Compact Network South Africa since 2020 Sibanye-Stillwater has participated in the Global Compact’s SDG Youth innovators program and gender, and climate accelerator programmes. By aligning with the SDGs, Sibanye-Stillwater is demonstrating its commitment to global sustainability and contributing to a better world for all.

Investing in local businesses is not just a corporate responsibility for Sibanye-Stillwater, it’s a strategic imperative and the UN Global Compact has been instrumental in providing a framework for measuring and reporting on our sustainability programs’ impact. By strengthening Sibanye-Stillwater’s local supply chain, we build a more resilient and sustainable business.

Sibanye-Stillwater’s Supplier Development Program is a shining example of how business can be a catalyst for positive change. By empowering local entrepreneurs, the company is creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond its own operations. As Lekau Group and other recipients continue to thrive, they serve as a beacon of hope for other aspiring entrepreneurs in the community.

“Companies like Sibanye-Stillwater are demonstrating how business can be a force for good,” says Dr Achieng Ojwang, Executive Director of Global Compact Network South Africa. “Their commitment to supplier development is an inspiring example of how to create shared value.”

Sibanye-Stillwater’s commitment to supporting local businesses is not only commendable but also essential for building a sustainable future for all. Sibanye-Stillwater also aims to inspire other companies to adopt similar initiatives and contribute to the creation of inclusive and sustainable communities.