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MOSSEL BAY NEWS - One of the largest plant hire and building material suppliers in the Southern Cape, Transand, last week officially presented the renovated premises of the Aloe Créche to principal Emmerencia Buis, teacher Annelie Uithaler and the 17 toddlers in their care.
As part of the legislated requirement to obtain a mining licence, Transand had to invest in the upliftment of a community closest to the proposed mine, so they decided to renovate the Aloe Créche at Buisplaas, close to Herbertsdale.
The créche is situated on private land and therefore is dependent on sponsorship for the upkeep of the facility.
Transand used the skills of its own staff to build both an awning on to the existing shed-like building that houses the créche, as well as a shade net cover for the toddlers' playing area to protect them from the harsh weather when they play outside.
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Transand staff beautified the facility with a new lick of paint in vibrant primary colours and added paving along the length of the front of the building to safeguard the children from muddy puddles on their way to the playground and kitchen area.
At the handover ceremony, the little children were clearly very excited and entertained the many guests with items of song and dance.
The Department of Mineral Resources Western Cape was represented by Vusi Mwelase and assistant director: social and labour plan, Nwabisa Mgcotyelwa, who congratulated Transand on the completion of the project.
Transand CEO, Billy Robertson (far right), and guests watch the toddlers' dance performance on the newly-paved area in front of the entrance to Aloe Créche.
"An investment in education is an investment in the lives of those who are being educated. Transand is leaving a lasting legacy by becoming involved with the young beneficiaries during their formative years."
Ward Councillor Barnie Groenewald said Aloe Créche was a jewel, a blessing in the lives of the very young children they cater for.
"My wish is that the teachers and parents involved with Aloe Créche will cultivate an environment where love and caring will form the firm foundation for future growth for the young children in your care. We are the custodians of their future, we owe them a bright and beautiful life, for they are our future leaders."
Councillor Groenewald thanked the CEO of Transand, Billy Robertson, and the human resources manager, Adrie Kruger, for extending a hand to the community of Buisplaas.
The day's celebration ended with everyone enjoying the lovely refreshments on offer.
ARTICLE & PHOTOS: NICKEY LE ROUX, MOSSEL BAY ADVERTISER NEWS EDITOR
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