Mineworker Magazine Issue 4 Dec 2023

#Mining Stories

December - January 2024

Silly Season in Mining

Exclusive Interview with Dr. Munyadziwa Kwinda from Tshiamiso Trust

Qhubeka Trust

Would you know what to do if you or your partner got retrenched?

Youth in MiningUJ Mining Forum Event

Mining Wisdom

Editorial Team

Publishing Editor: Pearl M editor@mineworker.co.za

082 544 0238

Contributors: Various mining industry contributors

Advertising & Sales: Sam Peter Design: Free Concepts

Mineworker Magazine is at the forefront of sharing mineworker news. The magazine provides insights from the mines and providing deeper understanding of life in the mines through the lens of mineworkers.

Mineworker magazine is owned and published by Dadero Communications and Concepts. No person, organisation or party can copy or reproduce the content of this magazine or any part of this publication without written consent from the Editor and the author of the content, as applicable. The publisher (Dadero Communications and Concepts), authors and contributors reserve their rights with regards to copyright of their work. Information has been published in good faith by the publisher and is correct at the time of going to print. Mineworker magazine is not responsible for the views of its contributors.

Published by:

Dadero Communications and Concepts Po Box 4374, Cresta, 2118

Email: info@daderocommunications.com

Dadero Communications and Concepts is a Level 1 Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) contributor, with 135% recognised procurement recognition. Scorecard available on request.

Pearl M Editor’s note

Dear Esteemed Mineworker Magazine Readers,

What a year 2023 has been, we look back in awe and grateful that we have made it thus far. This issue comes just after we have seen the Springboks win the world cup – they brought it home. Their theme was stronger together and what a befitting slogan for the mining industry too. Indeed, we are stronger together and we need each other as we navigate our daily lives.

We see you and appreciate you

Our hearts swell with pride as we reflect on the journey we’ve shared together. Your unwavering support, encouragement, and commitment to keeping us relevant have been invaluable. Thank you sincerely for believing in us. Sineqhayiya nebhongo ngomsebenzi eniwenzayo kunye ne nxaxheba eniyithathayo ekuphuhliseni ilizwe lethu. Akuphelelanga apho kodwa nakumakhaya enu. Ningadinwa impumelelo sele isondele. Nizintsika zamakhaya kwaye ngaphandle kwenu kungamoshakala okunininzi sithi masithathe elithuba sigqithise lomyalezo. Sitsho kuni bo Thembelani, Xhasumzi, Xhantilomzi, Ntsika, Lerato, Mathapelo, Mmabatho, Azwindini, Khayalethu, Nokuthembela, Vusumzi – nini abo.

We are dedicated to reciprocating your trust by consistently delivering up-todate and pertinent news about mineworkers and the industry you are in. Your perspectives and insights are highly valued, and we eagerly anticipate hearing more from you. Our ears are attuned to your experiences and knowledge, ready to amplify the voices of our community. Sikhona ukuva izimvo zenu ukuze nivakale.

Once again, thank you for being an integral part of our journey. We look forward to continuing this collaborative and enriching adventure together. Enkosi sibamba ngazo zozibini.

In the depths where darkness meets determination, you, the backbone of our nation, continue to forge ahead despite the challenging economic conditions that surround us. Your unwavering commitment to your craft is nothing short of inspirational, and it is during these tough times that your resilience shines brightest.

The current economic landscape poses its share of trials, but it is crucial to remember that within the heart of adversity lies the seed of opportunity. Your dedication, hard work, and perseverance contribute not only to the success of the mining industry but also to the resilience of our entire nation.

As you navigate through the tunnels and face the uncertainties that the economic challenges bring, know that your efforts are not in vain. Your labour, often unseen but never unnoticed, forms the bedrock of our prosperity. Your resilience is the beacon that guides us through the darkest times.

Times may be tough, but so are you. The minerals you extract from the earth are not merely commodities; they are symbols of your strength and the resilience of a community bound by a common purpose. Your labour is an investment in a better future for yourselves, your families, and the generations to come.

In the face of economic hardships, I encourage you to stay united, support one another, and find solace in the knowledge that your contributions are necessary. Your hard hats are not just shields against physical challenges; they are emblems of your tenacity in the face of economic storms.

Let the echoes of your hammers and the rhythm of your drills be a testament to your enduring spirit. In the underground world where you toil, remember that your efforts resonate far beyond the confines of the mineshaft. Your resilience has the power to uplift communities, sustain industries, and shape the destiny of our nation.

In these trying times, your resilience is a source of inspiration for us all. Stay strong, stay focused, and know that your labor is the bedrock upon which our collective success is built. The tunnels may be dark, but the light of your resilience pierces through, illuminating the path towards a brighter future.

Take care of yourselves this festive season

As we approach the festive season, a time of joy, celebration, and reflection, it is crucial for us to consider the well-being and safety of those who toil beneath the earth to extract the precious resources that fuel our nation’s progress.

In this edition of our magazine, we turn our spotlight to the dedicated mineworkers of South Africa, the unsung heroes whose efforts contribute immensely to our nation’s prosperity.

Mining is a demanding profession that requires unwavering dedication and resilience. As we gather with family and friends to celebrate the holidays, let us take a moment to express our gratitude to the men and women who work tirelessly in the depths of our mines. Their commitment and hard work lay the foundation for the progress we enjoy, and it is our responsibility to ensure their safety and well-being.

The festive season, with its increased activities and potential distractions, poses unique challenges for those working in the mining industry. It is imperative that we all take extra precautions to ensure that safety remains the top priority. We urge each mineworker to be vigilant, adhere to safety protocols, and prioritise their well-being, both inside and outside the workplace.

To the mining principals and leaders, we implore you to prioritise safety measures during this season. Let us collectively ensure that every mineworker returns home safely to their loved ones. This responsibility extends beyond the workplace, reaching into the communities that surround our mines. By fostering a culture of safety and well-being, we not only protect the lives of those directly involved in mining but also contribute to the overall prosperity of our nation.

In this edition, we feature stories of resilience, innovation, and dedication within the mining community. We aim to inspire and remind everyone of the human element behind the extraction of our valuable resources. As we showcase the accomplishments of the mineworkers, let us also use this platform to reinforce the importance of safety, both during the festive season and throughout the year. In this issue, we also speak to the CEO of Tshiamiso Trust. We

have been inundated with calls from people who want to understand how the Trust works and whether there is money owed to them from the trust.

One death is one death too many

The number of fatalities is rising, at the time of publishing this issue, the industry was on 53 deaths. That is 53 lives lost and as we celebrate time with our loved ones, let us remember those who are not able to.

May this festive season and the new year be a time of joy, reflection, and renewed commitment to the wellbeing of our mineworkers. Let us celebrate responsibly, work safely, and ensure that the mines remain a secure environment for all.

Wishing you all a safe and joyous festive season!

Until next time,

Mineworker Magazine team

Website: www.mineworker.co.za

Email: editor@mineworker.co.za

Phone: 082 544 0238

FB: Mineworker Magazine

Twitter: @mineworkermag

Podcast: The Mineworker

Qhubeka Trust

Would you know what to do if you or your partner got retrenched? 7 9

Silly Season in Mining 1

Youth in Mining

Mining Wisdom

13 16

Exclusive Interview with Dr. Munyadziwa Kwinda from Tshiamiso Trust

3

Clement Murungweni

Dr Munyadziwa Kwinda

Mongezi Veti

Incoming Chairperson of UJ Mining Forum 2024

CEO at Tshiamiso Trust

Executive Head, Sustainability

It’s Silly Season in Mining

The festive season in the mining industry is often associated with mine accidents. It is during this time that mines raise awareness on mineworkers becoming extra vigilant to ensure their safety. One may want to take short cuts but they often come with detrimental effects. Safety awareness campaigns around this time become critical and we should ensure that safety is prioritised.

At Mineworker Magazine, we understand the paramount importance of the health and safety of mineworkers in the mining industry. The well-being of those who work in mines is a top priority, and we are dedicated to being a steadfast advocate for safety in raising the much needed awareness.

Mining operations inherently involve risks, and it is our collective responsibility to mitigate these risks and protect the lives of our dedicated workforce. Through our magazine, we strive to raise awareness about the latest safety protocols, technological advancements, and best practices that contribute to a safer mining environment.

We believe in the power of knowledge and education to empower mineworkers with the skills and awareness needed to navigate potential hazards. Regular features in Mineworker Magazine highlight success stories, share lessons learned, and showcase innovative approaches to health and safety in mines.

We actively support initiatives that promote continuous improvement in safety standards, advocate for worker well-being, and emphasise the importance of a collaborative approach involving industry stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and the workforce.

As the mining landscape evolves, so too must our commitment to health and safety. Mineworker Magazine stands as a steadfast advocate for the protection and enhancement of the lives of mineworkers. Together, let us champion a culture of safety, drive innovation, and build a mining industry that not only thrives economically but also prioritizes the health, safety, and prosperity of every individual working in our mines.

As we look at the fatalities in the mines, it cannot be business as usual – drastic and effective measures need to be taken and it is a collective effort. Let us ensure that every mine worker returns from work unharmed every day.

Exclusive Interview with Dr Munyadziwa Kwinda from Tshiamiso Trust

Mineworker Magazine sat down with the CEO of Tshiamiso Trust, Dr Munyadziwa Kwinda to get to understand how the Trust works?

Since the launch of Mineworker Magazine we have been inundated with calls from mineworkers across the country asking for help regarding money they believe is owed to them by the mines which some believe is being kept by the Tshiamiso Trust. As the magazine was launched we vowed to ensure that Mineworker Magazine will ensure that information for mineworkers is brought to them. There are many gaps that need to be filled and the lack of information and knowledge remains the biggest challenge.

Lack of information seems to be a challenge and many people left the mines many years ago and do not have all the necessary information or the know how where getting the correct information and guidance is concerned.

Keeping hope alive

A man from Mqanduli in the Eastern Cape contacts us almost every month, expressing his frustration that the expected funds have not arrived. This individual, currently unemployed, sacrifices what little he has and travels to town in the hopes of finding what he believes is his hard-earned money in his bank account. The recurring disappointment he faces each month is undoubtedly a heartwrenching experience.

New Ceo, new hope

In June 2023, Tshiamiso Trust announced the appointment of its new CEO, Dr Munyadziwa Kwinda, and before he could even hang his jacket and put down his bag, Mineworker magazine visited his office to engage him on his vision and how he planned to deal with the challenges faced by the trust. The narrative around the trust judging by the Facebook comments on the Tshiamiso Trust

page, there is a lot of anger and dissatisfaction and we want to understand how both sides can understand each other.

Who is Munyadziwa Kwinda?

Dr Kwinda is a highly qualified health professional and an expert in bioethics and health and medical law. Currently registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Medical Practitioner specializing in family medicine, Dr Kwinda holds both science and medicine degrees from the University of Venda and the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, as well as post-graduate qualifications in family medicine, bioethics and health law. He also holds a post-graduate degree in law.

Where did it all start for him?

With 20 years working experience, including years of experience in clinical care, Dr Kwinda has held various management positions at senior, executive, and nonexecutive levels. In addition to senior positions at hospitals in Limpopo, Kwinda has held several positions at the HPCSA, including that of Ombudsman, Acting Chief Operations Officer, and Acting Registrar/Chief Executive Officer.

In a non-executive capacity, Dr Kwinda has also served on various boards and committees, including being a Board Member and National Councillor for the South African

Medical Association, Vice Chairperson of the Medical and Dental Professions Board at the HPCSA, a member of Council, Governance and Audit and Risk Committees at the Vaal University of Technology, ViceChairperson of the Aeromedical Committee at the South African Civil Aviation Authority, and a member of the National Health Research Ethics Council.

What is he bringing to Tshiamiso Trust?

The trust commenced during the COVID period, facing delays caused by the pandemic. Currently, they are in the developmental stage, requiring a strategic approach. Their initial timeline was impacted by the challenges posed by Covid-19.

What led him to choose to work for Tshiamiso Trust?

Dr. Kwinda found himself in this new environment when he was approached for the position. As the Tshiamiso Trust was explained to him, he became intrigued, drawn in by the inviting name of the trust and the opportunity it presented to make a meaningful impact. His interest deepened as he recognized that the trust serves people in rural areas, aligning with his values as an ordained pastor who believes in positively influencing the lives of others. Driven by the hope people have in receiving their money, he is committed to making a difference.

Engaging with stakeholders

A few days after his arrival, Dr Kwinda engaged with the Office of the Premier in the Eastern Cape. The Eastern Cape remains one of the biggest labour sending areas for the mining industry. The claimants are ex-mineworkers and also the children and relatives of exmineworkers who have since passed on. The use of accredited health practitioners remains critical as their role influences the processing of claims.

The trust operates within a specified lifespan, concluding in 2031. The timeline is crucial to ensuring that beneficiaries are appropriately cared for within the stipulated period.

Are they aware of the negative narrative from the ex-mineworkers on how the Trust conducts its business?

During the settlement, the processes are generally smooth, with no reported issues. However, upon closer examination, certain areas demand attention and improvement. The Trust recognizes a lack of communication as a challenge. Medical eligibility poses another hurdle, as a mineworker’s history in a qualifying mine may not align with the information provided in medical certification. This incongruity becomes a challenge when potential claimants do not qualify, contributing to a negative narrative. Out of 10 individuals undergoing the process, only 3 may ultimately meet the eligibility criteria.

The requirement for specific documents adds complexity to the process, and engagements become crucial. Tracing back to 1965 is a formidable task, necessitating the assistance of agents to gather information. Challenges intensify when dealing with deceased individuals, involving beneficiaries or spouses in the process. Each stage must be satisfactorily completed, but certain sections encounter bottlenecks. Effectively communicating medical ineligibility becomes critical in managing these complexities.

“We are passionate about the work that we do’

While they do engage in communication, Tshiamiso Trust acknowledges the need for improvement as there is evident dissatisfaction despite their sincere efforts. The Trust has already disbursed over R1.3 billion rands, yet they recognise the imperative to enhance our performance. Dr. Kwinda is committed to ensuring the stability and compliance of the Trust, ensuring a solid foundation.

In his role, he leads a team representing the Trustees, and their focus is on measuring achievements, making the strategy a crucial element. Evaluating the baseline and identifying areas for improvement are essential aspects. A change in narrative and positive feedback will signal a meaningful transformation. A well-defined strategy will

not only impact specific areas but also enhance overall communication.

A message to mineworkers from Dr Kwinda

He mentions that individuals need to follow the Tshiamiso Trust processes to be part of the system ensuring a smooth workflow without delays. Once all necessary procedures are followed, payments are promptly processed within 48 hours. Financial literacy plays a significant role in expediting payments, and they maintain records of individuals who have either undergone or declined financial literacy sessions. Verification of banking details is essential, as some individuals, despite having funds ready for disbursement, face delays due to unverified banking information. Additionally, some individuals do not have recorded banking details.

Meeting stringent medical requirements introduces another layer of complexity, leading to delays. Personalised examinations become necessary, especially for individuals on oxygen, who may face challenges in visiting the identified centres.

The Trust is expanding their outreach to other areas of South Africa, Botswana, eSwatini, and Mozambique to connect with the ex-mineworkers. Medical certification poses an ongoing challenge in their efforts as he explains.

Why does Tshiamiso Trust exist?

The primary aim of the trust is to facilitate payments, and Tshiamiso Trust is dedicated to doing everything in their power to prioritize the well-being of the beneficiaries. At Tshiamiso Trust, their daily mission is rooted in waking up with the intention to ensure eligible individuals receive their rightful payments. Their existence is centred on the imperative to pay mineworkers who meet the eligibility criteria. Every morning, Dr. Kwinda explains their purpose as being clear — they wake up with the sincere desire to make payments and contribute positively to the lives of those we serve.

The Last word!

We are here for the mineworkers and we have not forgotten about you, he concludes.

About Tshiamiso Trust

The Tshiamiso Trust manages thousands of claims for mineworkers eligible for compensation due to contracting TB or silicosis from working in certain gold mines during specific periods between 12 March 1965 and 10 December 2019. If you are claiming this compensation, please be aware of the following:

• To claim is free.

• The claims process is not quick.

• You need to be approved through very specific criteria, which is assessed through 8 stages of the claims process.

• Certain information and documents will be required from a claimant.

Tshiamiso is a Setswana word meaning ‘to make good’ or ‘to correct’.

It is our vision to live up to our name and while the past cannot be undone the Trust will strive to make a difference now and in the future.

Who can claim?

1. Mineworkers who did risk work at qualifying gold mines (during the qualifying period, 12 March 1965 –10 December 2019) (or if deceased, their dependants) are potentially eligible for compensation. Risk work is work where an employee may have been exposed to dust that could have caused silicosis or TB.

2. If a mineworker worked on any of these mines for more than 5 years they are entitled to a free medical benefit examination to determine whether they have silicosis or TB as defined in the trust deed. If they do, they will be eligible for compensation. The amount of compensation depends on the nature of the eligible claimant’s illness.

3. The amount will be reduced pro rata for any time that they worked at a non-qualifying mine (or at a qualifying mine during a non-qualifying period).

4. But if they worked at one or more qualifying mines during qualifying periods for 30 years or more they will be paid the full amount of compensation due for the relevant class of silicosis or TB as defined in the trust deed. Mineworkers who worked for less than 5 years at qualifying mines are also potentially eligible for compensation but if they want to claim they must have a benefit medical examination at their own expense (and will be reimbursed if it turns out that they do have silicosis or TB as defined in the trust deed).

Source: www.tshiamisotrust.com

Qhubeka Trust

The mining industry has encountered challenges concerning the health and safety of mineworkers, leading to lawsuits and claims aimed at rectifying past injustices. Various trusts, such as the Qhubeka Trust, have been established to address mineworker issues in a coordinated manner. In an interview with Dr. Kisting, one of the trustees, we sought insights into the trust’s work and its assistance to mineworkers.

When was Qhubeka Trust established?

Established on March 4, 2016, through a legal settlement involving attorneys representing exgold mineworkers, the Qhubeka Trust focuses on silicosis cases resulting from work in mines owned by Anglo American South Africa Limited and/ or AngloGold Ashanti Limited. The trust began its operations in 2016, conducting the first class action and the first silicosis trust, identifying 4,365 claimants.

Identifying beneficiaries

Compensating claimants proved complex, especially for those who had passed away. A predictive model, utilsing information from living claimants, estimated that 70% of deceased mineworkers could have died from silicosis. The compensation ranged from R64,000 for mild silicosis (C1) to R397,000 for severe cases (C4). Outreach teams, included work to identify rightful beneficiaries, despite challenges in determining heirs.

Collective efforts from the mining industry

Total number of Claimants: 4365

Number of Claimants medically examined: 3853

have struggled for decades without proper compensation from mining companies, was registered by the Master of the High Court on 22 April 2016.

The trustees, including Dr. Sophia KistingCairncross, Alicia Kistan, Goolam Aboobaker, and John Doidge, facilitated 3,853 medical assessments by expert doctors and radiologists. Out of these, 2,301 qualified claimants with silicosis were identified for compensation. The trustees determined compensation amounts based on individual cases, considering the severity of silicosis and the claimant’s age.

What makes the work of Qhubeka Trust unique?

The Qhubeka Trust stands out from others by exclusively addressing silicosis. It faced challenges in reaching claimants within a three-year period, during which 42% of claimants passed away. Despite the challenges, the trust successfully distributed 92.5% of the allocated funds, totaling 421.8 million out of 425 million, benefiting both living and deceased mineworkers’ families.

Reflecting on the trust’s work, Dr. Kisting emphasised the positive impact on mineworkers’ lives, with stories of improved living conditions, education for children, and increased pride among families. While acknowledging the efforts of trusts like Tshiamiso, challenges remain, including delays and mischievous elements in the compensation process.

Dr. Kisting called for continued efforts to improve mine conditions, prevent diseases, and establish a well-resourced compensation system. He highlighted the need for hefty penalties for actions causing mineworkers’ illnesses, emphasizing a collective responsibility to honour the sacrifices made by miners and build a healthier, more just society.

Number of Claimants diagnosed with a Silica Related Disease into the Trust Deed: 2429

Claimants diagnosed as not having a Silica Related Disease into the Trust Deed: 1424

Number of Claimants approved for payment: 2301

Number of Claimants paid: 2280

Value of Claims paid: R422m

About Qhubeka Trust

The Trust, whose name means in Xhosa “go forward” and was named in honour of the thousands of claimants who

The primary objective of the Trust is, as per Clause 4 of the Trust Deed, to provide compensation to Qualifying Claimants and Dependant Claimants in respect of Silica Related Diseases on the basis set out in the Trust Deed thoroughly, efficiently and reliably.

The Settlement covers 4365 named ex mineworkers, otherwise referred to as the Claimants, whose claims the Trustees must process in terms of the provisions set out in the Trust Deed and agreed to by the attorneys representing the ex-mineworkers and AASA and AGA.

In order to qualify for compensation Claimants must have worked for a qualifying operation for at least two years in aggregate and have a Silica Related Disease.

Claimants reside mainly in the Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, and in the neighbouring countries of Lesotho and Swaziland. The Trustees have set up a network of offices and service providers in these areas and countries to receive and process claims from claimants.

Source: www.qhubekatrust.co.za

Your Budget

Take a hard look at your monthly budget. What are the things that you can do without? Identify these and close them down e.g. credit cards, clothing store accounts, etc…

Your Post Retrenchment Budget

Would you know what to do if you or your partner got retrenched?

by Phumelele Ndumo

Retrenchment is a difficult time and it affects not just the person being retrenched but their loved ones too. There are however a few things that we could all do to reduce the stress of losing a job. In my experience, it is often better to proactively do what you need to do so you feel in

control of your situation rather than not taking any action and wait until you are forced to act e.g. by your creditors. I also find that it is better for the person who is being retrenched to be the one to take the initiative than to wait for your partner to nudge you in a certain direction. Not all

the guidelines given below will apply to everyone but hopefully you will find one that is useful for your own circumstances. No one can foretell the future so times ahead are very uncertain. So you want to err on the side of caution as no one knows if or when you will get another job.

months would be a wise idea, if you can afford to do this. However, please note that if you put in a huge lump sum into your home loan, your bank might not be willing to make you withdraw it while you are still retrenched.

pressure on your family. It might be better to sell your car so you reduce your monthly expenses. Reducing your monthly expenses will reduce stress.

Retrenchment Protectors & Premium Waivers

Write down what your budget will be after your retrenchment. There is no more income or very little income so you want your expenses to also reduce accordingly. The lower your expenses, the longer your retrenchment package is likely to last you.

Your Debts

Depending on your retrenchment package payout, try and settle most of your debts, especially your short-term expensive debt e.g. personal loans, revolving credit, furniture store accounts, etc…

Your Home Loan

Do you own a home? How far are you from paying it off? How big is your outstanding bond? Can you consider a home sharing arrangement or letting someone rent your garden cottage, a spare bedroom or flat let, if you have these? Can you still afford to keep your home or do you need to sell it? I wouldn’t recommend renting out your home – what if your tenants don’t pay the rent? Pre-paying your home loan repayments for 6 or more

Your home loan is the cheapest form of debt so you want to keep this facility open as far as possible. You have to strike a fine balance between prepaying a portion of your home loan to give yourself breathing space while you are looking for another job and ensuring that you don’t end up being forced to sell under pressure. Whenever you sell under pressure, you are likely to sell at a lower price as you might have to take an offer that you could have refused if you had the leverage to negotiate a better price.

Your Car

How many cars do you have? If you have more than one car, can you afford to keep all your cars? Even if you have only one car, can you afford to keep it? Would it be a better option to sell it and buy a more affordable car? If you are married and you have more than 1 car, can you afford to keep both cars? Can you pay off your car? If you decide to pay it off, remember to ask for a settlement amount – this is likely to be lower than the outstanding balance. If you have a car and you are still paying for it, don’t let the monthly repayments cause you to lose your home or to put financial

Find out if any of your policies have retrenchment cover or premium waivers. If they do, you might find that you don’t have to pay premiums for about 6 to 12 months and you could also receive some income for a while.

Your life cover policy

This is one policy that I believe you must guard with all you have. You want to pay for this policy for at least 1 year in advance or more if you can afford to. If you allow it to lapse, you face the following risks:

• You may have contracted a disease that you are not aware of so you might not qualify for a policy once you have a job again

• Your health condition may have deteriorated with age and your premiums will be very expensive due to loadings

• You might get a policy and have exclusions for preexisting health conditions

• You may die while you are still unemployed

Remember that you need life cover primarily to pay off all your debts when you die, to maintain the standard of living of your

dependents and depending on the value of your estate and marital status and regime, to pay estate duty and executors fees upon your death.

Do you have children?

Telling your children that you are without a job must be one of the most difficult things to do. But it must be done. Depending on their age, the impact of the job loss must be explained to them too – this could mean reduced pocket money, fewer extra murals, fewer paid for extra lessons, no holidays, etc... Have you paid their school fees for the year? I believe you must pre-pay their school fees for at least a year so you shield them from the stress of your job loss. Are your kids in a private school? Can you still afford the private school fees or do you need to look for a public school?

Should you use your package to start your own business?

This is a very difficult one. Some successful businesses were started by people that were out of a job and needed to survive –the adrenalin rush pushed them to excellence. Yet we also know that many small businesses end up in failure. So the risk is depleting your money on a business that might not see the light of day and being without money sooner. So you must strike a very fine balance.

If you already had the business on the side lines while you were

employed and you already have a few customers, it might not be a bad idea to use a part of your package to invest in your business. You must decide how much money you will invest in it and if it doesn’t take off – cut your losses and don’t keep pumping money into it. It might also be a good idea to join an entrepreneurial support program so you receive professional guidance.

Tax Implications

You have 3 main options when you get retrenched.

1. To cash your package

2. To transfer your money to a preservation fund

3. To transfer your money to a retirement annuity or

4. A combination of all 3 options.

Retrenchment is treated as retirement for tax purposes.

From 1 March 2014, the tax-free allowance is R500 000 from all retirement products, combined, once in your lifetime - subject to certain conditions. You will be charged tax according to the table below. The higher the amount you withdraw, the higher the tax you will pay. If you choose to transfer your cash value to a Retirement Annuity, the transfer will be tax-free however you will not be able to access your money until age 55.

If you transfer your benefit to a Preservation fund, the transfer is tax-free and you will be allowed one withdrawal, either partial or total, before retirement age,

which is 55. Your choice will be informed by all of the above conditions and in all likelihood, you will need a combination of strategies rather than a single option.

Lump sum benefits are taxed according to the tax table below:

Not exceeding R500 000 0% of taxable income

Exceeding R500 001 but not R700 000

Exceeding R700 001 but not R1 050 000

R0 plus 18% of taxable income exceeding R500 000

R36 000 plus 27% of taxable income exceeding R700 000

Exceeding R1 050 000 R130 500 plus 36% of taxable income exceeding R1 050 000

Get a financial advisor to guide you through the process. If you are getting retrenched and you need a financial advisor to guide you through the process, you can email me at phumelele@ thuthuka-sa.co.za

Keep Busy

Get physical, go for a daily walk or run. This will not just keep you

fit but will also help you remain positive about life.

Go to the library daily – you can read the newspaper for free and read and relax. Hopefully you will find a job through the Classifieds section of the newspaper.

Help your children with homework.

Volunteer your services to a church, an NPO, a school or charity of your choice.

Depending on your skills, assist a small business – many have plenty to do but don’t have enough revenue to pay high salaries.

Do you have a housekeeper?

Can you still afford her salary? This is the opportunity to discover your true passions, to do the things you never had time to do before.

Your Self-worth

One thing you must guard against when you get retrenched is shame and self-blame. You have just lost your job, do NOT lose your self-worth too. It is normal to feel afraid, unsure of yourself and even angry – but don’t take this out on yourself or your loved ones. Get counselling if you need to – many churches offer free counselling. You have a better chance at getting another job if you remain positive. Do voluntary service – you would be surprised how helping others when you are in need yields positive results for you.

Your new job

I have had the benefit of working with people who lost their jobs and are now employed. While retrenchment is painful and difficult for all of us, it will make you grow money wise. You are likely to end up financially successful because you were retrenched at some point in your life. While you are retrenched, you will learn lessons about money and yourself that you may never have learnt. You will learn to appreciate life more and enjoy the things that cost no money. You will truly appreciate the difference between needs and wants and when you are employed again, you will use your money wisely and grow your money in leaps and bounds – surpassing those that never lost a job. So feel the fear but know that from this point onwards, there can only be growth. Funny how our most difficult experiences can make us better people.

If you are an employer and are retrenching or consider retrenching your employees, it would be good if you offer them guidance during this time.

+27 11 568 2635

phumelele@thuthuka-sa.co.za

Office 62, Block 2, Ext 15, 8

Incubation Drive, Riversands, Riverside View, Fourways, 2021 thuthuka-sa.co.za

Is the industry supporting UJ Mining Forum?

Youth in Mining:

Conversations with the incoming Chairperson of

UJ Mining Forum 2024Clement Murungweni

In November 2023, Mineworker Magazine attended the UJ Miners Ball at Emperor’s Palace, Johannesburg, a widely attended event where students in the mining field gathered to commemorate their 20-year journey and applaud their achievements. This momentous occasion also featured the transition of the chairmanship position from Elsie Munzhedzi to Clement Murungweni. We had the opportunity to sit down with Clement and discuss his plans for the future.

Tell about your journey

I am presently pursuing a Bachelor of Technology in Mining Engineering. During my academic journey, I became a member of the UJ Mining Forum with a keen interest in a leadership role.

Initially, I went for the position of project manager but was unsuccessful. Undeterred, I contested once more, and I am pleased to share that I am now the Chairperson of the UJ Forum in 2024.

How has the journey been with the UJ Mining Forum?

Engaging with the mining forum has been a valuable lesson in leadership for me. The forum serves as a bridge between the academic aspects of mining at UJ and the practical realities of the industry. While the university provides theoretical knowledge, the forum plays a crucial role in closing the gap by facilitating interactions between students and industry experts, offering a practical understanding of what transpires in the mines.

Certainly, our support network extends to the industry, including government backing. Additionally, we actively seek financial support, and both mining companies and individual contributors have played a significant role in supporting our journey. We are fortunate to have individuals within the forum who provide mentorship, generously sharing their expertise to guide and nurture us as members.

Any success stories to from those who were or are part of UJ Mining Forum?

The forum boasts success stories from its participants, many of whom have excelled in their careers and made significant strides in the business world.

What are your personal ambitions?

I have passion for the mining industry and I want to gain experience, later in life I am looking into an operation of my own.

What are your plans for the forum?

I have great plans and part of it is ensuring that students are connected to the industry. We also want to create a platform where students can get vocational work.

What is your take on women in mining?

We have seamlessly integrated with the women in mining forum at UJ, fostering a collaborative partnership. Together, we provide mutual support and strive to complement each other's efforts.

Your last word?

We are growing as the forum. It is advisable for students at UJ to join the forum and they will see the benefits. We also appreciate the support of the industry and how they are nurturing the talent and the future of the mining industry.

The speakers in attendance were Mongezi Veti, Executive Head Sustainability from Exxaro, Elizabeth Marabwa, Chief Director Programmes and Projects at the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy and Kgosietsile Mmoloke, Business Process Manager from AmandlaTM Group.

Veti generously imparted essential insights to the audience, offering invaluable guidance on how to skillfully navigate the space.

Mining Wisdom

Mongezi Veti sharing his wisdom at the UJ Mining Forum

Learning from veterans in the mining industry is an invaluable experience that provides profound insights, practical knowledge, and a rich understanding of the nuances within the field, contributing to the holistic development of individuals aspiring to thrive in the mining sector.

Mongezi Veti, Executive Head Sustainability at Exxaro, shared his personal journey, recounting a time when mining was not easily accessible to all.

Describing mining as a challenging career with a dwindling number of participants as one progresses, Veti highlighted the necessity of resilience in the face of both favourable and challenging times. Drawing a vivid contrast between careers with ties and suits and those in mining with hard hats and gumboots, he acknowledged the initial bitterness but underscored the

eventual rewards within the sector.

Veti reminisced about a time when employment was guaranteed, courtesy of major companies sponsoring mining graduates and offering experimental training. In the contemporary landscape, entrepreneurship opportunities have emerged, diverging from the traditional focus solely on employment. He encouraged students to be flexible, recognising the evolving role of technology in creating new jobs and career opportunities.

Emphasising that education is not the sole pathway to knowledge, Veti urged students to identify and thrive in their chosen spaces. He highlighted the significance of block chain technology as a future-oriented field.

Addressing the prevalent issue of frustration among young

individuals, Veti urged them to explore alternative avenues, citing his own experience of developing investment skills during the COVID-19 pandemic. He stressed that while not everyone may become a President, CEO, or Executive, going the extra mile, a bit of luck, and following one's unique path can set individuals apart.

Veti shared insights on leadership, emphasising the strategic use of language and the importance of respect in building a positive culture. Starting with a simple greeting, like "sawubona," he illustrated how small actions can contribute to creating a respectful and conducive working environment. In conclusion, he encouraged individuals to explore the abundant opportunities in the world, set goals, and follow their unique paths, referencing the guiding words of Jeremiah 29:11.

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