Presentation by Gugu Mbatha A good story to tell on Women in Mining

Introduction Women in mining came into being in year 2000 Fourteen (14) in were sent underground in one of Anglo Gold Mines They spent eight(8) hour shift and they managed to pull through. Chamber of Mines then allowed the process of employing women in mining Trade union that is a signatory to an agreement of having women to work in mines

A Good story to tell PPE Development of women Maternity benefits Remuneration Recognition of women as leaders both in the trade union movement and at work Mining Charter Conclusion

PPE (PERSONAL PROCTECTIVE EQUIPMENT) As we all know mining industry is a male dominated industry Having women employed in the industry was a challenge , arrangements were only for males PPE was not suitable for female bodies To date we have overall for suitable for women bodies Safety shoes that fit female ranging from size 3 Helmets, gloves and eye protection that fits females

Development of Women Women are developed into the senior positions Women have the choice on field they what to be developed on There are women who sits on decision making platforms( though at times they are reminded that they are women) In the trade unions women are part of the teams that go to wage talks

Maternity benefits Women when they are pregnant they are placed where its safe for their conditions They are entitled to four months paid maternity leave, some companies grant them six months In some companies women are allowed two months of breast feeding over and above the four months We are aware of the fact that, some women are struggling to get this benefit, we are going to fight in solidarity for all women forcing companies to comply

Remuneration Previously women were paid lesser than men Equal pay for work of equal value To date women are the beneficiaries of that( we are aware that, there are companies that still do not comply)

Recognition of women In the unions we do have women that sits in position of influence and make decision, we must confess it is still a few of them we are gunning for bigger numbers We do have women who are managers at the workplace it is also not satisfactory but we appreciate the fact that, they are there and we believe numbers will be increasing

Mining charter Mining charter is pro women It stipulate clearly that in every level of management back women must be represented Mining Charter has been reviewed, but still there is some tussling on the 14% stake given to Black entrepreneurs. There is BEE that is given a stake of 30%, Communities 8% and Workers 8% Black entrepreneur 14% Beneficiation 11%

Employment Equity Board level: 50% black; 25% to be women Executive/Top management: 50% black; 25% to be women Senior management: 60% black; 30% to be women Middle management: 75% black; 38% to be women Junior management: 88% black; 44% to be women Occupying these positions there will be skills and qualifications needed. It is imperative for women to develop themselves through Individual Development Plans at their workplaces.