The company-wide programme, launching ahead of Women's Month, includes custom-designed maternity PPE, comprehensive maternity hampers and dedicated breastfeeding facilities across all operations, says the company.

The initiative addresses a gap in the mining industry, where standard PPE has historically been ill-suited for pregnant women. "This shifts the needle in our industry by recognising that motherhood is a vital and supported part of our workforce's journey," says Dr Pranill Ramchander, Executive Head of Corporate Affairs, and Kumba WIM EXCO Sponsor. "We're moving beyond basic legislative compliance to create an environment where women can bring their whole selves to work."

As Anglo American's iron ore business, the programme comes from the company's aim to commit to gender diversity. Led by the Kumba Women in Mining (WiM) committee under Kutlwano Takadi's leadership, the initiative aims to represent a collaborative effort across the organisation, says the company.

The programme offers three components across all Kumba operations:

  • Specialised maternity PPE: Custom-designed, safety-compliant maternity two-tone Velcro shirts and maternity jeans.
  • Maternity hampers: Essential early childcare items for new mothers.
  • Lactation facilities: Safe, hygienic spaces for breastfeeding mothers returning from maternity leave.

"WiM serves as a catalyst group that advocates for women at Kumba, to progress women's inclusion and empowerment agenda, thus accelerating an inclusive environment," says Dr Ramchander.

The initiative aims to reinforce Kumba's belief in "empowerment through inclusion" and to address everyday challenges women face in mining workplaces. By providing comprehensive support through pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal journey, Kumba aims to ensure that employee well-being at every stage of the maternal journey, says the company.

This approach aims to recognise that while women have made significant strides in mining over the past 20 years, true inclusion requires acknowledging uniquely woman-related workplace experiences. The programme hopes to demonstrate that pregnancy is respected, not just accommodated, building a culture of care, visibility and support, adds the company.

The maternity PPE initiative aims to create a structured and meaningful experience of inclusion that benefits organisational culture, Dr Ramchander notes. When employees feel a sense of belonging, security and acceptance, they perform at their best, says the company.

Kumba's commitment aims to extend beyond this launch, with plans to ensure the programme's sustainability for future employees. This pioneering approach sets a new industry standard, proving that mining companies can successfully nurture environments where everyone belongs, concludes the company.

For more information, visit www.angloamericankumba.com. You can also follow Kumba Iron Ore on Facebook, LinkedIn, or on X.

*Image courtesy of contributor