MOTIVATING WOMEN TO ENROL AND BE COUNTED IN STEM CAREERS
AFRICAN BUZZ • of unprocessed prospecting and mining right applications , and two : speedily process and issue new applications without contestation and court cases , effectively removing perceptions of malfeasance . An investment-friendly exploration environment will encourage the creation of prospecting funds from the private sector , broadening the options for access to finance and opening further opportunities for new entrants to complement the funding from government that is granted on a conditional basis and excludes a broad range of newcomers ;
• Government departments to be aligned and streamline various aspects of approving prospecting and mining applications . The creation of a one-stop shop for investors to expedite exploration and mining projects is critical . A holistic approach from a fully functional regulator , with skills and capacity to manage the sector is equally essential to align on the needs and performance of the industry , address the speed at which decisions are made and to strengthen the trust between the DMPR and the industry .
• A process with the DMPR , which much like Operation Vulindlela , will focus attention on three or four key constraints on investment and growth in the mining industry , and to collaboratively work on fixing them as a matter of urgency .
The mining industry is the uncontested catalyst of South Africa ’ s economy .
“ To conclude , South Africa is on a mission to ignite inclusive economic growth , create jobs and reduce poverty . The mining industry is a key player and contributor to this mission . We believe that a growing mining sector , with both large and small players , new entrants , including women- and youth-owned businesses , is a transforming sector .
Fully functional and cost-competitive infrastructure will encourage industrial investment , adding value to our minerals , and creating value for the country which will maximise the value of our exports , grow and broaden our economy and create jobs which will enhance the dignity and pride of all South Africans .”
Source : speech delivered by Mzila Mthenjane , CEO , Minerals Council South Africa : “ What miners want : to grow the South African mining industry .” ( 5 February 2025 , Investing in African Mining Indaba 2025 )
Ask not what the mining industry can do for you , but rather , what you can do for the growth of the mining industry .
The Minerals Council commissioned a third-party study into the MPRDA during 2024 to understand objectively whether the Act has achieved its stated aims of growing the mining sector and encouraging development and transformation .
“ When it comes to growth , the MPRDA has not achieved its goal ,” said Mthenjane .
Holistic in its approach , the report covered both contextual concerns and specific industry issues . The study , which incorporated input from a broad range of stakeholders , reviewed several areas of mining including recommendations on growth in GDP , exploration and employment , environmental management , artisanal , small scale and junior mining and institutional changes .
A summary of the Minerals Policy Review , compiled by Mining Dialogues 360 ° in association with Good Governance Africa , can be found here : https :// www . africanmining . co . za / research-papers /
MOTIVATING WOMEN TO ENROL AND BE COUNTED IN STEM CAREERS
Third annual women in Engineering , Infrastructure and Innovation conference hosted by Pinpoint Stewards in 2024 .
On 12 March 2025 , Provincial Minister of Infrastructure , Western Cape , Tertuis Simmers , will be addressing the annual Women and Leadership conference in Sandton , Johannesburg .
The fourth annual women in Engineering , Infrastructure and Innovation conference is hosted by Pinpoint Stewards . “ One of the key outcomes from last years ’ conference were requests to include the input and support of male leadership , specifically within STEM and male dominated sectors . The department of Infrastructure , Western Cape , is one of the first onboarded entities forming part of the faculty of speakers and showing their support towards empowering women in STEM careers ” says Sudhira Sewsunker , Pinpoint Stewards . Another male counterpart adding his voice in support , is Zutari MD , Transport and Greater Africa , Vishaal Lutchman .
Additional speakers this year include :
• Dr Gugu Moche , group exec : Digital Transformation and Acting CEO : Research , Innovation , Impact Support &
Supplied by Pinpoint Stewards www . africanmining . co . za African Mining Publication African Mining African Mining • March 2025 • 5