The election of Nolitha Fakude, as President of the Minerals Council of South Africa (MCSA), is a much needed pick-me-up that the mining sector needs. This is considering differences that persist amongst stakeholders on the appropriate approach to implementing transformation targets stipulated in the Mining Charter.

Fakude’s ascendancy is groundbreaking in that she has become the 131-old Minerals Council’s first woman president. On the development, the Minerals Council CEO, Roger Baxter, said the organisation is confident that she and other newly elected members will bring a wealth of experience to the board.

“It is a watershed occasion to have our first woman President and is testament to Nolitha’s fortitude and leadership capability. I am certain that she will leave an indelible mark on the industry and a material leadership contribution in the years ahead.

“One thing that has been such a great asset to the industry is the very high calibre of leadership of women and men from our Board that are willing to step forward and play key leadership roles as Office Bearers in the Minerals Council. These leaders have a profound impact on the future direction of the mining industry and the country. I look forward to working with Nolitha and the Office Bearer team in the year ahead,” Baxter explained.

This is Fakude’s second stint with the Minerals Council. She has served as the council’s vice president before. Her predecessor is outgoing president, Mxolisi Mgojo. Currently, Fakude is Chair of the Minerals Council Women in Mining Leadership Forum.

At the 131st annual general meeting (AGM), the Minerals Council Board members 2021/2022 also elected vice presidents who are: Paul Dunne, CEO of Northam Platinum; Themba Mkhwanazi, CEO of Kumba Iron Ore; and Peter Steenkamp, CEO of Harmony.

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