The communities around our operations face challenges in accessing basic healthcare facilities, as well as the need to address endemic problems such as malaria and HIV/AIDS. Katanga is investing in healthcare programs to benefit employees, their dependents and the broader community through selected high-impact interventions.

To date Katanga has completed a range of infrastructure improvements at the Mwangeji Hospital in Kolwezi, including refurbishing and restocking of the pharmacy; drilling boreholes and installing related infrastructure to provide water; and constructing of two new sanitation blocks that restored toilet and shower capacity to the hospital. In a collaborative effort between Katanga and Project CURE, a US-based nonprofit group, a shipment of medical supplies and equipment has been donated.

We are also working with Crusader Health, an independent medical services provider, to rehabilitate and manage the Methodist Hospital in Kolwezi and to establish new community clinics in each of the three main communities on our mine site, Luilu, Kapata and Musonoie. Aside from contributing to the capital costs for these facilities, Katanga covers the medical expenses for employees and their dependents.

Other plans for 2008 include implementing a range of measures for a comprehensive malaria prevention program, including provision of bed nets, residual spraying, larvae control and community education and awareness. Over 1,800 treated bed nets have already been supplied.

We also plan a community vaccination program, in conjunction with GAVI Alliance, and HIV/AIDS Awareness & Education Program for employees, their dependents and the community. Further enhancements to the Mwangeji Hospital are also anticipated.