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Kumba Iron Ore unveils industry-first PPE for expecting miners

Kumba Iron Ore, Anglo American’s iron ore business, has become the first mining company to launch a dedicated maternity Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) programme, setting a new benchmark for inclusion in the mining sector.

Launched ahead of Women’s Month, the initiative introduces custom-designed maternity PPE, maternity hampers, and dedicated breastfeeding facilities across all Kumba operations. It addresses a long-standing gap in the industry, where standard PPE has historically failed to accommodate the needs of pregnant workers.

“This shifts the needle in our industry by recognising that motherhood is a vital and supported part of our workforce’s journey,” said Dr. Pranill Ramchander, Executive Head of Corporate Affairs at Kumba Iron Ore.

“We’re moving beyond basic legislative compliance to create an environment where women can bring their whole selves to work.”

The programme was driven by Kumba’s Women in Mining (WiM) committee, led by Kutlwano Takadi, and is a tangible step towards the company’s broader gender diversity goals.

Key features of the initiative include:

• Specialised maternity PPE: Safety-compliant two-tone Velcro maternity shirts and jeans tailored for pregnant miners
• Maternity hampers: Essential early childcare items provided to 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,” added Dr. Ramchander.

Kumba’s initiative reflects a deeper shift in workplace culture — one that recognises pregnancy not as an exception, but as a valued part of an employee’s professional journey. By ensuring women feel supported through pregnancy, childbirth, and their return to work, the company is fostering a culture of care, visibility, and belonging.

“When employees feel a sense of belonging, security and acceptance, they perform at their best,” said Dr. Ramchander.

While women have made strides in the mining industry over the past two decades, true inclusion means acknowledging and addressing the unique challenges they face. Kumba’s maternity PPE programme sets a new industry precedent — proving that mining companies can embrace diversity while maintaining safety and performance excellence.

The company plans to sustain and expand the programme for future employees, ensuring it becomes a permanent feature of its inclusive workplace strategy.