Mpumi Zikalala has carved out an exceptional path in the mining industry as the first female CEO of Kumba Iron Ore, South Africa’s largest iron ore producer and a subsidiary of Anglo American. In an industry long dominated by men, Zikalala’s journey is not only groundbreaking but a powerful testament to determination, resilience, and vision. With her sights set on sustainable growth and community development, she is reshaping the industry while inspiring others to dream bigger.
Her story began in the township of Umlazi, KwaZulu-Natal, where Zikalala’s strong academic drive and disciplined work ethic caught early attention. A keen interest in chemistry and engineering led her to the University of the Witwatersrand, where she pursued a degree in Chemical Engineering. Yet her journey from university to CEO was far from conventional; Zikalala gained her industry foothold through hard work, facing each challenge head-on and always with a focus on continuous improvement.
Entering the mining sector in the early 2000s, Zikalala joined Anglo American as a metallurgist, taking her first steps in what was still a predominantly male field. From there, she rose steadily through the ranks, working in various operational roles that allowed her to understand mining from the ground up. This deep operational knowledge would later distinguish her as a strategic leader, making her an asset in overseeing large-scale operations.
In 2021, when she was appointed as CEO of Kumba Iron Ore, Zikalala took on one of the most challenging roles in South African mining. Under her leadership, Kumba has strengthened its focus on sustainable mining practices, local economic development, and workforce safety. These are values she personally champions, having seen the critical impact that responsible mining can have on communities around the mines.
Her leadership style, often described as open and inclusive, has made a positive impact on Kumba’s workforce and partners. By promoting a collaborative culture, Zikalala ensures that every employee feels valued and empowered, contributing to improved productivity and morale. She believes that by fostering a culture of respect and collaboration, Kumba can create a stronger, more unified approach to overcoming industry challenges.
Zikalala’s focus on sustainable and responsible mining is central to her vision for Kumba. She is particularly passionate about reducing the environmental impact of mining. Under her guidance, Kumba has been investing in innovative technologies aimed at reducing carbon emissions and preserving natural resources, aligning with Anglo American’s broader sustainability goals.
Beyond the mine, Zikalala is also dedicated to community upliftment. Kumba’s community programs, which focus on education, healthcare, and local enterprise, reflect her belief in creating lasting positive change for the communities surrounding mining operations. She understands that for the company to thrive, the communities around it must prosper, and she has been a driving force in this mutually beneficial approach.
In a sector often seen as rigid and risk-averse, Zikalala has brought a refreshing dynamism to Kumba. Her openness to new ideas and willingness to invest in innovative practices has made her one of the mining industry’s most progressive leaders. She emphasizes that responsible mining is not only ethical but also financially sound, reinforcing that the industry’s future hinges on sustainable practices.
Despite the pressures that come with leading South Africa’s biggest iron ore producer, Zikalala maintains a balanced perspective on work and life. She values time spent with her family and recognizes the importance of self-care in managing the demands of her role. Her ability to balance these aspects of life has been an inspiration to many young professionals who aspire to follow in her footsteps.
Zikalala’s success story is not just about personal achievement—it’s a reflection of a larger shift in the mining industry toward inclusivity and innovation. She has become a role model for women in STEM, especially for those pursuing careers in sectors traditionally closed off to women. Her journey illustrates that with the right support, expertise, and determination, it’s possible to break down long-standing barriers and reshape industries.
Mpumi Zikalala is not only transforming Kumba Iron Ore; she is setting a new standard for what leadership in mining can look like. Her story is one of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of visionary leadership. As she leads Kumba into the future, Zikalala stands as a testament to the potential within South Africa’s mining industry to evolve, innovate, and inspire.
