The AEMFC believes that the Optimum Coal transaction will be fundamental to the country’s energy security, and is strongly supportive of ensuring that these assets are awarded in a transparent, responsible and fair manner.
"We believe there exists, through this consortium and within our bid for Optimum Coal and its associated assets, a significant potential to demonstrate the value inherent in a workable and sustainable South African Public-Private Partnership (PPP)," says Sizwe Madondo, Chief Executive of AEMFC.
"Our joint commitment to the transformation of the mining sector – and our partner’s proven track record of operational excellence – can deliver meaningful and tangible growth for Optimum Coal.
"Our successful bid would also ensure that through this PPP, the state not only demonstrates efficient joint custodianship of a strategic national asset, but also its investment in a proactive strategy to ensure energy security for all South Africans."
The consortium has also confirmed that is has the guaranteed funding ability and operational expertise to create a commercially viable business that optimises the asset to the benefit of its shareholders, the State and the people of South Africa.
Furthermore, compensation of the workers is a critical priority of the consortium, as is achieving shared value by providing a structure in which the communities and workforce surrounding the assets will benefit from ownership in the asset and/or operations.
Madondo concludes: "We view this transaction of national significance, and through a team of reputable and experienced sector experts who invest in rigorous due diligence processes, together, we can build South Africa’s image; whilst instilling confidence within the local and global investor community that South Africa is open for business on commercially sound terms that benefit all South Africans."
Source: Mining Review Africa
