NUM Frees State regional women structure condemns second fatal incident involving a female worker at Harmony Target Mine

The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) Free State Regional Women Structure expresses its deepest sorrow and outrage following another fatal accident at Harmony Target Mine. This tragedy has claimed the life of a female employee—the second such fatality involving a woman at this operation in just two months.

It is devastating and unacceptable that lives continue to be lost under circumstances that raise serious concerns regarding workplace safety and machinery operations. As organized labor and as women within the mining sector, we are deeply disturbed by this recurring pattern.

"We demand urgent and transparent clarity from Harmony Gold management regarding these fatalities. Women in mining face unique vulnerabilities, and it is unacceptable that safety systems appear to be failing them. Workers have a right to the truth about the conditions under which they operate, especially as machinery-related incidents persist," said Primrose Ntholeng, NUM Free State Regional Women Structure Chairperson.

The NUM reminds the employer of its binding obligations under the Mine Health and Safety Act (No. 29 of 1996):

• Section 2(1): The employer must ensure a safe and healthy working environment through proper design and equipment.

• Section 5(1): The employer must take reasonable steps to ensure employees can work without endangering themselves or others.

• Section 11(1): The employer must identify hazards and assess all associated risks.

The continued loss of life suggests a critical failure in implementation, oversight, or accountability. The recurrence of these incidents raises serious questions about maintenance, training, supervision, and safety compliance.

The NUM Free State Regional Women Structure will not stand by while women are exposed to life-threatening conditions. In response to this tragedy and the lack of satisfactory answers, the structure will organize a protest march to express collective frustration with Harmony Target Mine management. Details regarding the date and logistics will be communicated in due course.

We call on the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) to intervene urgently and conduct a thorough investigation. There must be accountability and immediate corrective action.

Women workers are not disposable. Their safety, dignity, and lives must never be compromised for production targets or profit margins.

Enough is enough.

For more information, please contact:

Primrose Ntholeng NUM Free State Region Women Structure Chairperson Cell: 078 152 5435

The National Union of Mineworkers
7 Rissik Street.
Cnr Frederick Johannesburg
Tel: 011 377 2111 Cell: 083 809 3257
Twitter: @Num_Media

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/NUM/10086002340216