In our last article, The Road to Becoming a Blasting Geek, we explored the grit and precision needed to master explosives engineering.
Today, we turn the spotlight on a force that’s redefining the industry: women. From Zimbabwe’s mines to global players like Anglo American and top institutions such as Missouri S&T, women aren’t just stepping into the mining and blasting sector—they’re leading it.
The mining industry is quietly transforming as women break barriers across all levels—from technical specialists to executive decision-makers.
Around the world, trailblazers are proving that success in mining isn’t defined by gender.
In Zimbabwe, a new wave of talented professionals is making its mark, reshaping an industry that has long been a male-dominated stronghold.
Women in mining are shattering stereotypes with the same precision as a perfectly timed blast.
From platinum mines to boardrooms, female leaders and young innovators are driving change.
Yet, challenges remain—especially in Zimbabwe, where women are still underrepresented in STEM fields and mining leadership.
So, what’s changing, and what more needs to be done?
At the forefront of this shift are industry leaders like Dr. Catherine Johnson of Missouri S&T, whose groundbreaking work in explosives engineering is redefining safety standards; Mpumi Zikalala, the visionary CEO guiding Kumba Iron Ore towards a more sustainable future; and Meagan van den Berg, whose technological innovations at AECI Mining are transforming modern blasting techniques.
Closer to home, Zimbabwe’s rising stars are proving that the future of mining is in good hands.
Stella Chitakunye, Nyasha Muzata, and Vimbai Bashukwa are bringing perspectives to blast designs and production blasting, while Tsitsi Dhambuza, Bianca Munakandafa, and Amanda Tigere are using data-driven approaches to revolutionise mine planning and design.
Despite these successes, Zimbabwe’s mining workforce remains overwhelmingly male, with few women holding senior technical or leadership roles.
The absence of Zimbabwean women from prestigious global lists like 100 Most Inspirational Women in Mining highlights the work still needed to achieve real gender balance.
Bridging this gap requires deliberate action. Mining companies must create targeted recruitment and mentorship programmes.
Schools and universities need to encourage more girls to pursue STEM careers.
And as an industry, we must do more to recognise and celebrate the achievements of women in mining.
The success of global leaders like Johnson, Zikalala, and van den Berg—combined with the growing impact of Zimbabwe’s emerging professionals—proves one thing: when given equal opportunities, women don’t just succeed in mining; they redefine what’s possible.
For Zimbabwe’s mining sector, embracing gender diversity isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a strategic advantage.
The innovation, expertise, and leadership that women bring will be essential in tackling the industry’s evolving challenges.
And with each new success story, the foundation for a more inclusive and dynamic mining industry grows stronger.
The fuse is lit—let’s make this explosion count! Engage with Blasted Zone! Have you worked with inspiring women in blasting? Share their stories!
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