Zambia Appoints First Female Chief Executive In Mining Sector

Zambia’s mining sector, a significant contributor to the country’s economy, has made history after appointing its first female CEO to head one of the biggest mining operations there.

Mfikeyi Makayi will head up the copper unit in Zambia for KoBold Metals, Zambia’s presidential office said.

Meanwhile, Zambia is Africa’s second-biggest producer of copper, which is in high demand with the global transition to a low-carbon economy and future transport needs.

“It’s quite a huge task and nerve-wrecking task but it’s also an honour to serve this country,” Ms. Makayi said.

Her rise to the top of the organisation has been a 15-year journey that started out in the mines of the north-western province.

She said her appointment was a significant step in a sector that is traditionally male-dominated.

“It means a lot to people in the sector. It’s a sector that is pivotal to our economy – 70% of our exports are copper.

“It means a lot to myself personally, my family, and the industry. It means that the industry has been opened to women,” she said.

Report says part of her efforts in the new role will be to bring more women on board.

“It’s an ongoing strategy. There’s always been a drive for more diversity, and inclusion. We have it as a metric,” she added.

BBC/Christopher Ojilere