The communities of Phonde, Chipasse,Matabanhama, Calambo and Bwambwe, located around Vale's mining operations in Moatize, consume drinking water supplied by five solar panel-based water supply systems.

The systems inaugurated a few days ago, benefit approximately 2000 people. "Vale built it, but this system is ours, so we have to protect and take care of it like we take care of our things at home," said Eugénio Muchanga, Administrator of Moatize, at the inauguration of the water supply system.

"The days of suffering for the population that used to travel distances to get water for consumption are over," he added.

To ensure the durability of the system, the administrator left recommendation to the population. "Don't let strange people or even our children steal the panel because it is you who will suffer again because of lack of water," he said.

For his part, Vale's representative, Simão Muhorro, said that the provision of the water supply system to the population of Moatize reinforces the company's commitment to providing sustainable means of survival for the communities.

"Contributing to the development of the surrounding families in our operations is part of our social responsibility. We believe that with access to potable water the lives of these communities are transformed," he said.

This initiative by Vale to deliver the water supply system takes place in the month that is commemorated, the World Water Day (March 22) and in this context, the company and the Government reinforce the message of making people aware of the importance of water and the need not to waste it.