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#MiningMatters to Employees
Our People, Our Strength.
Mining is all about people. The men and women whose skills and dedication power a vital South African industry. The mining industry directly employs 470,000 people, 5% of the formal workforce, with their wages supporting the livelihoods of nearly two million people.
Mining companies are investing heavily in training their employees as well as community members, particularly the youth, contributing more than R5 billion in 2024 to generally lift skill levels and to secure jobs both within the industry and in the future when mining has ceased.
The extent of training provided by mining companies internally and to communities underscores why the industry is relevant and important not only to 470,000 employees but also to host communities where training is becoming increasingly important. Training within mining companies is heavily focused on safety.
The mining industry reported its safest year in 2024, with 42 fatalities, the lowest on record as companies continue to strive for Zero Harm and the training initiatives are yielding the changes they wish to see.
Every improvement in health and safety begins with our employees who are the heartbeat of mining. They work in challenging environments, yet their commitment ensures the industry continues to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economy and society.
Community training is focused on the youth, providing them with opportunities to find work in mining and beyond. These initiatives are critical towards creating thriving economies in mine-host communities.
Our people are our strength. When our employees succeed, South Africa succeeds.
South Africa’s mining industry invests more than R5bn on employee training
SA’s mining industry invests more than R5bn on employee training
Fact Sheet: #MiningMatters to Employees - Our People, Our Strength.
Mining directly employs more than 470,000 people and sustains the livelihoods of nearly 1.9 million. Including over 400,000 people employed by direct suppliers, the industry supports about 3.5 million livelihoods overall. At the centre of this impact is the sector’s commitment to building skills. In 2024, employee training doubled, with mining companies delivering more than 600,000 training interventions annually to strengthen safety, productivity, and career progression. These investments ensure that employees are equipped for their current roles and future opportunities, while helping to drive an inclusive, resilient economy.
Mining’s greatest resource isn’t underground. It is the people whose skills and dedication make the industry possible.
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#MiningMatters Video Interviews
DID YOU KNOW?
Episode 04
Did you know mining directly employs nearly half a million South Africans?
Episode 06
Did you know more than seventy thousand women now work in South African mines?
Episode 06
Did you know mining safety has improved year after year with record-low fatalities in 2024?
