Nedbank CIB backs DRDGOLD with R2-billion for mining expansion

 

Nedbank CIB’s financial support for DRDGOLD’s growth

 

Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) recently concluded a financing package of up to R2 billion for DRDGOLD. DRDGOLD is a historic name in South African mining and the oldest company listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), having been formed in 1895. Over the course of its history, the company has transitioned from deep-level underground gold mining to focus entirely on large-scale, mechanised, on-surface mining by retreating historical mine waste dams to produce gold and reverse the negative environmental legacy associated with these dumps.

 

Addressing environmental and social challenges of mine dumps

 

Although new deposition occurs on lined and safe facilities constructed to world-class standards, which removes historical waste dumps often located on or near aquifers and dolomitic areas, old gold mining waste dumps (or tailings) surrounding Johannesburg pose both an environmental and social challenge in communities. Given the time when much of this mining occurred, tailings have not been depositioned safely or in a way that allows environmental rehabilitation.

By creating jobs through procurement and socioeconomic development programmes, including self-enabling poverty alleviation and educational programmes, DRDGOLD aims to improve the quality of life for their employees and their communities.

 

The importance of tailings retreatment in modern mining

 

Tailings retreatment, undertaken by companies like DRDGOLD, is a positive story for South Africa. By profitably ‘remining' these old tailings and turning them into modern, environmentally safe tailings storage facilities, these sites can be revegetated to minimise dust and be fully rehabilitated for productive purposes.

DRDGOLD’s purpose is to reverse the environmental legacy of mining and improve quality of life, with sustainable development at the heart its business. By creating value from tailings, they transform what was once considered waste. Through land rehabilitation, they make areas available for people and economic activity, ensuring these lands are reintegrated into natural ecosystems. The company is indeed rolling back the environmental legacy of mining in South Africa.

 

Investing in renewable energy: DRDGOLD’s solar and battery projects

 

Riaan Davel, Group Chief Financial Officer of DRDGOLD, highlights the company’s ambitious plans: 'DRDGOLD is currently in a period of large-scale growth and investment. Between FY24 and FY27, we are due to spend significant capital amounts on the development of a large-scale solar power and battery storage facility and the expansion of our operations on the East and West Rand.'

 

Nedbank CIB: A strategic partner for mining companies

 

Nedbank CIB is the sole financier to DRDGOLD and is proud to be associated with a company that is using the sun’s rays to improve the legacy of mining in South Africa. 'This partnership shows how Nedbank CIB’s sector specialisation helps clients achieve their growth objectives while contributing to South Africa’s economic and environmental well-being.' – Greg Webber, Co-head of Mining and Resources at Nedbank CIB.

'This collaboration with Nedbank CIB is a significant milestone for DRDGOLD. It not only provides us with the financial backing to expand our operations, but also aligns with our commitment to innovative and responsible mining.' – Niël Pretorius, Chief Executive of DRDGOLD.