• HEALTH AND SAFETY
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Over a hundred years on , women all over the world are still fighting for equal pay , equitable access to career and business opportunities and freedom from physical , psychological and sexual assault in communities , in-transit to and from work and , unfortunately , at work .
SAFETY AND INCLUSION GO HAND-IN-HAND LOCALLY ON IWD 2024 AND BEYOND ( PART 1 )
Edited by Sharyn Macnamara
# InspireInclusion was celebrated on International Women ’ s Day ( IWD ) locally , when ten inspirational women miners – nominated by their colleagues for the work they have done to make their workplace and the industry safer – took to the stage .
In South Africa , on 7 March 2024 , the annual Women in Mining Heroes campaign run by the Minerals Council on behalf of its more than 70 member companies and associations gave inspiration to women in the mining industry with the acknowledgement that their contributions are recognised and valued . These women were celebrated for the value they have added to the industry in enabling others to return home safely after a hard day ’ s graft on the mines that literally are the backbone of our economy . In part one we set the scene , part two to follow online will home in on the difference these extra-ordinary women have made in going above and beyond the call of duty .
“ Today we celebrate 10 amazing women who are our heroes in safety . It is very exciting that every year for the past four years we have celebrated women colleagues who are heroes in specific areas of their professions in the mining industry . Today , it is poignant that we celebrate women who are leading in safety ,” said Nolitha Fakude , president of Minerals Council South Africa in her opening remarks at the event .
The transformation journey The annual International Women ’ s Day began in March 1911 when women took to the streets to demand better working conditions , shorter hours , better pay and voting rights . “ Over a
28 • African Mining • April 2024 www . africanmining . co . za