Minerals Council Showcases Advances and Obstacles for Women in Mining

#InternationalWomensDay #InvestInWomen #MiningIndustry #GenderBasedViolence #Femicide #SouthAfrica #NolithaFakude #ThuthuzelaCareCentres

Reflecting on this year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Invest in women: Accelerate progress,” Nolitha Fakude, the president of the Minerals Council South Africa and chair of the Women in Mining leadership forum, emphasized the significant strides the mining sector has made in combating gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in South Africa. Her remarks were made during a media breakfast held on March 7, just a day before the global observance dedicated to highlighting the achievements of women while calling for greater equality.

Fakude underscored the mining industry’s pivotal role in addressing GBVF through collaborative efforts with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the GBVF Response Fund. These partnerships have led to substantial financial contributions from mining companies, aimed at building, refurbishing, and supporting the operations of the NPA’s Thuthuzela Care Centres. These centers are vital in providing much-needed support and services to GBV survivors. They serve as beacons of hope, offering medical care, psychological support, and legal assistance in a compassionate and victim-friendly manner.

The proactive stance of the mining sector showcases a broader commitment to social responsibility and underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in tackling societal challenges. By channeling resources and support to initiatives like the Thuthuzela Care Centres, the mining industry not only contributes to the immediate well-being of GBV survivors but also furthers the cause of gender equality in South Africa. This gesture of solidarity highlights the crucial role that industries can play in driving social change and supporting the nation’s efforts to eradicate gender-based violence and femicide. Through such deliberate investments in women’s safety and empowerment, the mining sector joins a collective endeavor to accelerate progress towards a more equitable and just society.