MIDDELBURG — Access to clean water has become a reality for 147 residents of the Kleinfontein farming community in Middelburg after Mafube Coal handed over three solar-powered boreholes worth R3 million on Tuesday, 21 April 2026.
The project, delivered through Thungela’s 50% joint venture with Exxaro, includes boreholes fitted with solar power systems, pumps and water storage infrastructure capable of delivering about 30 000 litres of water per day.
Mafube Coal General Manager Tamara Qwatekana said access to water is non-negotiable.
“Access to clean, reliable and affordable water is a basic human right and essential to human dignity, health and food security,” Qwatekana said.
“The infrastructure we have provided will supply residents of this farming community, largely made up of the elderly and unemployed, with a long-term, safe and consistent water supply to support them and their livestock.”
She added that the project speaks to the company’s broader purpose.
“This is in line with our purpose, to responsibly create value together for a shared future.”
Steve Tshwete Local Municipality Executive Mayor, Councillor Mhlonishwa Masilela, welcomed the investment and highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in service delivery.
“Collaboration between local government and industry plays a critical role in extending essential services and enhancing the living standards of the residents of STLM,” Masilela said.
“Now that this community has received this infrastructure, we can direct our efforts to other areas without water supply.”
The handover forms part of Mafube Coal’s Social and Labour Plan commitments to support development in communities surrounding its operations, with six temporary jobs created during construction.
The Kleinfontein community, located within the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality, has historically relied on limited and inconsistent water sources for household use and livestock.
The solar-powered systems are designed to be low-maintenance and sustainable, reducing reliance on Eskom and diesel pumps while ensuring year-round water security for residents.
