Anglo American takes the lead in CSI

Norman Mbazima, Chairperson of Anglo American's Chairman's Fund, said: "While the results attest to perceptions pertaining to our impact as a company, the results nonetheless show which companies are successfully communicating their programmes and achieving reputational benefits," reads the report. "In 2014, respondents agreed that Anglo American was achieving the greatest development impact, with 26 corporate mentions and 24 non-profit organisation (NPO) mentions. This is in line with results from 2013, in which Anglo American was voted as the NPO favourite and when it shared the distinction with Nedbank of being in the corporate Top 10 list."

Anglo American's total CSI spend in South Africa for 2013/14 was R643 million including group companies and the Chairman's Fund. The primary focus of this expenditure was on education, health, community development, enterprise development, arts and culture as well as sports.

Image source: Anglo American

"Our top ranking in this survey can be attributed to the competency of management, through our respect and engagement with beneficiaries, as well as innovative embracing of dynamism in these communities. It is a credit to the positive change our CSI activities has achieved in our local communities."

"We're committed to not only being a good corporate citizen but to making a genuine difference in the communities surrounding our operations, and in South African society as a whole. In all our efforts as a company, we work towards delivering sustainable value that makes a real difference now and for the future. We currently have a broad range of initiatives under our CSI banner across the country that are helping thousands of people to take greater control of their lives."

Mbazima adds that in emerging economies like South Africa, Anglo American believes business has a responsibility to work in partnership with government to help to build the future.

"By working in creative partnerships with government and our host communities, we have successfully harnessed our various strengths and resources and created an enabling environment for sustainable benefits."