As South Africa marks Women's Month, the spotlight turns to women who are breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries.

One such person is 34-year-old, Refiloe Salome Masete, founder of Refiloe Maatla Trading & Projects, a 100% Black female-owned mining support company that has been making its mark since 2017.

Operating in areas like drilling and blasting, ventilation systems, and mining infrastructure, the company is not only contributing to safer and more efficient mining operations, but also driving transformation in a sector long dominated by men.

This Women's Month, we explore the journey, challenges, and impact of women in mining, and what more still needs to be done.

Mpho Sithole spoke to Refiloe Salome Masete...

As South Africa marks Women's Month, the spotlight turns to women who are breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries.
One such person is 34-year-old, Refiloe Salome Masete, founder of Refiloe Maatla Trading &amp; Projects, a 100% Black female-owned mining support company that has been making its mark since 2017.
Operating in areas like drilling and blasting, ventilation systems, and mining infrastructure, the company is not only contributing to safer and more efficient mining operations, but also driving transformation in a sector long dominated by men.
This Women's Month, we explore the journey, challenges, and impact of women in mining, and what more still needs to be done.
Mpho Sithole spoke to Refiloe Salome Masete...

An English news and current affairs wrap with a fresh take on the day’s top stories, hosted by the seasoned journalist Tsepiso Makwetla.

An English news and current affairs wrap with a fresh take on the day&rsquo;s top stories, hosted by the seasoned journalist Tsepiso Makwetla.

Africa Hour

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Women breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries

The Lake Kariba ferry tragedy has raised serious questions about passenger safety, possible negligence and accountability, with Bulawayo Mayor and Senator David Coltart calling for an independent commission of inquiry to establish exactly what caused the disaster. He says the investigation must determine whether the ferry was properly maintained, whether the passenger limit was exceeded, and whether any individuals or authorities were negligent. Mpho Sithole spoke to him about the tragedy, the need for accountability and what must change to prevent a similar disaster.

The Lake Kariba ferry tragedy has raised serious questions about passenger safety, possible negligence and accountability, with Bulawayo Mayor and Senator David Coltart calling for an independent commission of inquiry to establish exactly what caused the disaster. He says the investigation must determine whether the ferry was properly maintained, whether the passenger limit was exceeded, and whether any individuals or authorities were negligent. Mpho Sithole spoke to him about the tragedy, the need for accountability and what must change to prevent a similar disaster.

Lake Kariba tragedy raises serious questions about passenger safety

Zimbabwe is continuing to mourn the victims of the Lake Kariba ferry tragedy, with a memorial service held at Nyamhunga Stadium in Kariba town as families and the wider community grapple with the loss of at least 44 lives. The government-operated ferry capsized on Tuesday after reportedly encountering strong waves in bad weather. Official records indicate that at least 119 passengers and crew were documented on board, despite the vessel having a capacity of 90 people. 77 survivors have been rescued, while search and recovery operations continue for those still missing. The country has declared a State of Disaster, bringing additional resources into the rescue operation and providing support to affected families. Producer, Tracey Boomgaard caught up with Zimbabwe's Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe.

Zimbabwe is continuing to mourn the victims of the Lake Kariba ferry tragedy, with a memorial service held at Nyamhunga Stadium in Kariba town as families and the wider community grapple with the loss of at least 44 lives. The government-operated ferry capsized on Tuesday after reportedly encountering strong waves in bad weather. Official records indicate that at least 119 passengers and crew were documented on board, despite the vessel having a capacity of 90 people. 77 survivors have been rescued, while search and recovery operations continue for those still missing. The country has declared a State of Disaster, bringing additional resources into the rescue operation and providing support to affected families. Producer, Tracey Boomgaard caught up with Zimbabwe's Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe.

Zimbabwe mourns victims of Lake Kariba ferry tragedy

The Zambia Police Service says it has arrested six individuals who were allegedly found in possession of offensive weapons. The arrests come as authorities maintained heightened security around the electoral process and urged citizens to remain peaceful, law-abiding and vigilant. Mpho Sithole spoke to Godfrey Chilabi, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police and the Public Relations Officer for the Zambia Police Service on the arrests and the overall security situation.

The Zambia Police Service says it has arrested six individuals who were allegedly found in possession of offensive weapons. The arrests come as authorities maintained heightened security around the electoral process and urged citizens to remain peaceful, law-abiding and vigilant. Mpho Sithole spoke to Godfrey Chilabi, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police and the Public Relations Officer for the Zambia Police Service on the arrests and the overall security situation.

Women breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries

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