South32’s Hillside Aluminium smelter in Richards Bay is celebrating 30 years of operations, marking a major milestone in the global aluminium industry. The achievement came after the firm’s ongoing commitment to boost regional industrial growth, creating jobs and enhancing export competitiveness.
Being one of the largest aluminium smelters, this facility reflects that large-scale primary aluminium operations can play a vital role in strengthening supply resilience while also supporting broader economic and community development goals in South Africa.
From inauguration to today
Since its inception back in 1996, the smelter has focused on achieving a bigger vision, by showcasing a strong belief in South Africa’s future, local industries and the promise that large-scale investments can create opportunities. Since then, these targets led to real-world benefits, including job creation, skills training and rising small businesses alongside its operations.
In KwaZulu-Natal, the smelter became a part of Richards Bay, where it shaped not just the metal production but also nurtured careers, communities and the industrial strength of South Africa. Once started as a bold dream, it has now blossomed into the largest aluminium smelter in the Southern Hemisphere. Today, the smelter is not just a facility but a crucial part of the regional landscape, aiding in sustaining.