SOUTH Africa’s sole producer of prime anthracite, Zululand Anthracite Colliery (ZAC), has appointed Siyabonga Mathonsi as its first black general manager since mining operations began in 1987.
Menar, the mining investment company that acquired ZAC from Rio Tinto in 2016, said Mathonsi’s appointment was effective from 15 July 2019.
Menar’s Managing Director Vuslat Bayoglu described Mathonsi as a hard-working professional who worked himself up the management ladder of the mine.
“The appointment is a clear demonstration that, with adequate training and experience, coupled with the commitment to redressing the legacy of apartheid, substantive transformation is achievable. Menar is committed to ensuring that all employees of its subsidiary companies regardless of their background realise their potential,” Bayoglu said.
Following a handover period, Bradley Hammond, the outgoing General Manager, will take over a new role as group Chief Operating Officer at Menar.
Mathonsi’s career at ZAC began in 2008, when he served as an Engineer-in-Training. In 2010, he was promoted to a Junior Engineer. In 2015, he was appointed as a Section Engineer. In 2016, he became Engineering Manager until the announcement of his latest promotion.
Bayoglu said Mathonsi had played an important role in the turn-around of the mine while serving as a second in command to Hammond.
“They worked as a team. Siyabonga is a team player with excellent human relations skills. We look forward to seeing him and the team drive the extension of the life of mine beyond the projected 12 years,”he said.
Mathonsi said he was forward to his new challenge. “I believe it is important to show strong leadership through leading by example. I look forward to taking on this exciting new position. I am truly humbled to have been appointed as general manager at ZAC and thank the company’s management team for believing in and supporting me throughout this journey.”
He added that hoped to build on the strong base that has been established to ensure that ZAC achieves optimal efficiency, continues to build strong ties with workers and the host communities. In addition to ensuring that the mine’s primary goal of keeping workers safe and healthy is achieved, he wants to ensure that the mine grows and builds sound relationships with host communities.
Located in the district of Ulundi, ZAC has six underground sections and produces 1 million tonnes of anthracite per annum. It has a processing plant onsite where the product is washed to qualities of 0.9% to 1.4% Sulphur with extremely low ash content ranging from 8.5% to 18%. The product is sold to domestic and export markets.
Until Menar acquired ZAC in 2016, the mine was at different stages owned by BHP Billiton (from 1985), Riversdale Mining (from 2005) and Rio Tinto (from 2011). The mine currently employs 1 444, including contractors.
