As an important life skill, swimming is not only a great form of exercise, but also a skill that can potentially save lives.
As such, Kumba Iron Ore’s Sishen Mine has partnered with Kalahari Splash and Swimming South African to provide 100 learners from the region with lessons to develop their swimming abilities and to promote water safety.
The three-month long programme was designed to cater to children aged ten to 14 years, equipping them with different water skills. With classes instructed four times a week at the Kalahari Splash swimming facilities, the free lessons included learners being taught basic freestyle and backstroke techniques aimed at sparking long-term interest in swimming.
Lester Pietersen, socio-economic development officer at the mine and project coordinator, explained they offered this opportunity to five primary schools in the region.
“We appreciate that some of the learners have expressed interest in participating in swimming galas and being lifeguards.
“We plan to offer this programme to more young people within the John Taolo Gaetsewe District Municipality area and contribute towards developing the potential of young swimmers in the province.”
