As South Africans mark Mandela Month, a time dedicated to service, solidarity and making a positive difference in the lives of others, nonprofit organisation PinkDrive and mineral sands producer Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) are launching a health outreach campaign to bring life-saving screening, awareness and education services to communities across KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga.

Through its ongoing support of PinkDrive, now in its third year, RBM and its parent company Rio Tinto are helping expand access to healthcare in underserved communities by bringing critical services directly to where people live and work.

The first outreach activation will take place on July 13 as part of a broader programme aimed at improving health outcomes and encouraging early detection.

As RBM marks its fiftieth anniversary this year under the theme “50 years of partnership, progress and possibility”, the campaign reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to investing in the wellbeing of communities and creating lasting social value beyond its operations.

The outreach programme will focus on empowering communities through education and early cancer detection services, helping to address healthcare disparities in regions where access to medical facilities can be limited.

By bringing healthcare closer to where people live and work, PinkDrive, RBM and Rio Tinto are reinforcing their shared commitment to improving health outcomes and promoting community wellbeing.

“Access to healthcare should not depend on geography. With the support of Rio Tinto and RBM, we can extend our reach and provide essential services to communities that need them most.

“Early cancer detection and awareness prolong lives, and these outreach programmes are an important step towards ensuring that more South Africans have access to the care and information they deserve,” says PinkDrive founder and CEO Noelene Kotschan.

In a joint media release, RMB and PinkDrive explain that the programme will include community engagement activities, educational sessions and screening opportunities aimed at raising awareness of the importance of regular health checks and early intervention.

Local stakeholders, community leaders and healthcare partners will also be engaged to strengthen long-term health advocacy efforts in each province.

The parties say RBM’s funding of the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to supporting sustainable community development and improving quality of life in the areas where it operates and invests and beyond.

“Mandela Month reminds us that meaningful change often begins with small acts of service and care. Through our partnership with PinkDrive, we are helping bring essential health services closer to communities while creating opportunities for early detection, awareness and support.

“As RBM marks 50 years of partnership, progress and possibility, we remain committed to initiatives that improve lives and contribute to stronger, healthier communities,” says RBM COO Wilhemina Ngcobo.

The July and August outreach campaigns are expected to reach thousands of residents, providing valuable opportunities for health education, screening and referrals where further medical attention may be required.

Community members are encouraged to participate in the outreach events and take advantage of the free services and educational resources available through the programme.