Liberty Coal launches 2026 community upliftment campaign in Mpumalanga

Liberty Coal has announced its 2026 Community Upliftment Campaign, aimed at improving the lives of communities living near and working at the Optimum Coal Mine in Mpumalanga. Since acquiring the mine in 2024, the company has focused on a significant capex expansion and refurbishment programme to return the mine to full operating capacity.

While development continues, Liberty Coal remains committed to supporting the well-being of host communities in the Steve Tshwete municipal region.

The campaign focuses on providing immediate support in education, health, youth empowerment, and access to basic needs, guided by four key pillars: school support and education, sport and youth development, health and wellness, and community upliftment.

The campaign kicks off with a Back-to-School Programme benefiting schools surrounding the mine, providing support to at least 500 pupils from low-income families. Liberty Coal will donate school supply packs including school shoes, uniforms, school bags, and essential stationery, ensuring learners start the academic year fully equipped.

“Education remains one of the most powerful drivers of long-term community development,” said Liberty Coal CEO Hlayiseka Chauke. “Through this programme, we want to ease the financial burden on families, support school readiness, and create an environment where learners can focus on learning rather than being hampered by the lack of basic resources.”

Alongside the Back-to-School Programme, Liberty Coal is introducing a Sports Development Initiative to engage local youth, promote healthy lifestyles, and foster community pride through football. As part of the initiative, 3,000 footballs will be distributed to schools and youth clubs, and soccer kits will be provided in the coming months to support grassroots football development.

“The sports initiative is about more than just football,” added Chauke.

“It is about keeping young people active, instilling discipline and teamwork, and creating positive outlets that build confidence and strengthen community cohesion.”

This marks the first phase of a series of community projects designed to improve living conditions, ensure sustainable access to basic services, and create opportunities that support long-term development.

“Liberty Coal remains committed to being a responsible corporate citizen,” said Chauke.

“Our aim is to create shared value over the long term by investing in education, youth, health and community upliftment, and by working alongside our host communities to build a more sustainable future.”