In a significant move to bolster food security and promote long-term socio-economic development, Eurasian Resources Group in Africa (ERG Africa) has, through its Frontier SA entity, donated agricultural equipment to six host communities. This initiative is part of Frontier’s 2022-2026 commitments aimed at facilitating the transition from manual to mechanized farming for the Kabumba, Kaloko, Kimfumpa, Lukangaba Custom, Lukangaba Mashimu, and Sakania communities.
The equipment handover ceremony took place on September 27, 2024, at the Kaloko field and was attended by Mr. Nicolas Masaku, Sakania Territory Administrator, local chiefs, community members, as well as Frontier management and staff. The donation, which will follow community capacity-building sessions—including risk-based safety controls—includes two tractors, two ploughs, one fertilizer spreader, one 10-tonne trailer, one 5000-litre water trailer, and six motorcycles. This initiative aims to enhance agricultural productivity and efficiency, improve crop yields, boost food security, and increase incomes for farming households.
Mr. Nicolas Treand, Chief Executive Officer of ERG Africa, emphasized agriculture’s vital role in sustainable development for local communities in the DRC. “While mining is crucial for the DRC’s economic growth, initiatives like agriculture ensure long-term socio-economic benefits for local communities. By investing in agriculture, we’re not only helping farmers today but also laying the groundwork for future generations. Our integrated projects aim to stimulate the local business environment and ensure that our host communities continue to thrive beyond our operations.”
Farmers from the six beneficiary communities, organized into independent cooperatives, will gain full ownership of the equipment. To ensure the initiative’s sustainability, ERG Africa will provide training focused on skills transfer and the establishment of a sustainable farming model that delivers long-term benefits.
Frontier’s CSR Superintendent, Mr. Patient Kabela, spoke about the broader impact of this initiative: “With this equipment, we hope to enhance the entire agricultural process within our communities. By improving farming efficiency and quality, we’re creating a ripple effect that will contribute to the region’s economic development for generations to come.”
Mr. Willy Eyumu, the CLD President representing the communities, expressed deep appreciation for the equipment and the long-term vision behind the initiative. He stated, “We extend our gratitude to Frontier for addressing our priorities through this joint commitment. We are excited to receive this equipment, which presents a significant opportunity for our communities. I urge everyone to manage these resources responsibly to enhance productivity, not just for our generation but for future ones as well. It’s vital to protect this equipment and our projects from harm. I also encourage Frontier to continue supporting us beyond this handover, ensuring we stay on the right path toward sustainable growth.”
Sakania Territory Administrator Mr. Nicolas Masaku also stressed the importance of having a long-term vision: “Looking ahead, we must consider how this equipment will be managed in two years. How will the community take responsibility? Will we still depend on Frontier for maintenance? I propose that we establish a savings fund from the sale of our products this year to ensure we can maintain the equipment ourselves. I commend Frontier for providing this essential equipment and for their commitment to training local operators, which is crucial for the initiative’s long-term success.”
Mr. Treand concluded by highlighting ERG Africa’s broader commitment to investing in agricultural activities at its Boss Mining, COMIDE, and Metalkol operations, aligning with Head of State His Excellency Mr. Felix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo’s food security priority. He cited Frontier’s Chawama community agricultural program, managed by a cooperative of 40 farmers, as an example of this commitment. “Through this program, we provide vital inputs like seeds, fertilizer, and equipment, along with ongoing technical training. Last year, the cooperative produced 513 tonnes of maize, which was processed through the Mwabombeni milling cooperative (another Frontier initiative) and sold on the open market, further boosting income,” he added.