Modern Mining August 2024

WOMEN IN MINING

Mining industry attracts top-tier female talent

The removal of discriminatory laws has significantly contributed to the global mining sector’s progress towards gender inclusivity. For instance, women were previously excluded from underground work. However, since the International Labour Convention’s prohibition of underground work was repealed, mining companies have begun to acknowledge women’s immense contribution to the industry.

I n line with international norms as well as South Africa’s non sexist constitutional imperatives, Menar and its subsidiaries, including Canyon Coal, Kangra, Zululand Anthracite Colliery (ZAC) and Sitatunga Resources, are committed to ensuring that women flourish across various mining professions. Women are breaking down archaic barriers as the workplace becomes more inclusive. The mining industry is setting a good example when appointing women in senior roles. During its 134 th Annual General Meeting, the Minerals Council Board elected its new Office Bearers for 2024/2025. Exxaro Resources CEO Dr Nombasa Tsengwa was elected President of the Minerals Council. She takes over from Nolitha Fakude, Chair of Anglo-American South Africa and the first female president of the Minerals Council. Minenhle Mahlangu (19) is an auto electrician learner at Canyon Coal’s Khanye Colliery in Bronkhorstspruit. She is thrilled at the opportunity to build a career in the mining industry. “I envision my career expanding beyond just being an electrician. This industry is so diverse that in addition to being an electrician, I could also become a mechanic or even an engineer,” Minenhle says. Lebogang Mothoa, also from Khanye Colliery is an acting supervisor and was appointed in terms of the Mine Health and Safety Act. She is also in the process of obtaining her Government Certificate of Competency (GCC) and has a promising career ahead of her. Despite being surrounded by mostly male colleagues who report to her, Mothoa emphasises that she has never faced discrimination because of her gender. She believes that being competent and knowledgeable in her role reduces the likelihood of being doubted or belittled. “Knowing the job helps a lot. It helps you to be confident in what you are doing and the instructions you are giving out.” Mahlatse Monareng, Kangra’s environmental superintendent, has been attracted to the mining industry from a young age. She explains, “I was intentional about the path I wanted to follow, and it has always been the mining and energy industry.” She was intrigued by the industry’s unique and complex environmental challenges, which require a sustainable approach. According to the Minerals Council, women only represent 15% of South Africa’s mining industry. The Council has set a bold target to double the percentage of women representation in the industry by 2025. Mmakeng Vincentia Tabane, ZAC’s newly appointed production manager believes that enhancing transformation and making mining more attractive to women requires promoting STEM education and awareness among young girls, providing mentorship and addressing gender bias to create inclusive work environments amongst other things.

Lebogang Mothoa is an acting supervisor at Khanye Colliery.

Mahlatse Monareng is Kangra’s environmental superintendent.

Minenhle Mahlangu is an auto electrician learner at Canyon Coal’s Khanye Colliery.

She also highlights that family support and celebrating women’s achievements is crucial. “By working together, we can create a more diverse and inclusive mining sector that benefits everyone,” Tabane concludes. 

30  MODERN MINING  www.modernminingmagazine.co.za | AUGUST 2024