Transformation needed in mining

Friday, March 23, 2012

Pretoria - Transformation is still needed in all areas of mining, Mineral Resources Minister Susan Shabangu reiterated on Friday.

"Whilst we welcome the modest changes you have made in transforming your organisation, more still needs to be done totally to transform the industry at all its levels. This should include the employment of women - especially black women at both management and operational levels," she said.

Speaking at the annual general meeting of the Association of Mine Managers of SA, Shabangu said this will ensure that the industry corrects the wrongs of the past.

She said the country's mining sector was now operating in the global village and that managers should preserve their leadership legacy while also calling on them to mentor graduates.

Meaningful ownership was yet to be achieved by the industry.

"Whilst we have noted some progress in respect of ownership - meaningful ownership has not been achieved. The underlying empowerment funding models have resulted in the actual ownership being tied up in loans".

"Fronting still occurs in the industry and my department will be focusing on this matter to ensure that sustainable empowerment is realised," said Shabangu.