Asha Mambo, a prominent Mining Engineer with over 15 years of experience in Tanzania’s mining sector, uniquely focuses on enhancing diversity and supporting women in the industry. Currently, as the Territory Manager at Orica Tanzania, she is recognized for her leadership in mining projects and her commitment to mentoring aspiring female engineers. Asha strongly advocates for equal representation, flexible working conditions, and the elimination of barriers faced by women in mining, aiming to create a more equitable industry.
Asha Mambo is a distinguished Mining Engineer in Tanzania, commanding over 15 years of industry experience, particularly in managing open-pit quarries and underground operations. Her career commenced in 2009 as a graduate mining engineer, and she has since contributed to renowned companies such as Mbeya Cement and Barrick Gold Corporation. Presently, she holds the position of Territory/Country Manager for Orica Tanzania Limited, where she effectively oversees operations across the country.
Throughout her career, Asha has excelled in various roles, contributing to mine planning, drill and blast operations, and managing numerous mining projects. Notably, she made history by becoming the first woman in Tanzania to attain the role of Underground Superintendent at Barrick North Mara Gold Mine. Her effectiveness in leadership and commitment to efficiency and safety have considerably impacted the mining sector’s success.
Asha is supported by a Bachelor of Science degree in Mining Engineering from the University of Dar es Salaam and possesses a Mining Manager certificate from Western Australia. She is actively involved with several professional organizations, including the Engineers Registration Board (ERB), the Institution of Engineers Tanzania (IET), the IET Women Chapter, and the Tanzania Institute of Mining Engineers (TIME).
Recognizing the male dominance in the mining industry, Asha is dedicated to fostering opportunities for women. She prioritizes the hiring of qualified female candidates whenever participating in interview panels. This commitment aims to enhance women’s representation in mining and promote diverse teams, leading to greater innovation and improved economic performance.
On the theme of International Women’s Day, “Accelerate Her Impact,” Asha advocates for collective actions to support, celebrate, and elevate women. She underscores the necessity of structured action plans that assist women in realizing their full potential in the workforce.
Currently, Asha is mentoring seven women in the field of mining engineering, offering critical guidance to help them navigate their careers. She identifies several barriers females face in achieving leadership roles, including bias, lack of networking opportunities, and challenges in work-life balance. Asha emphasizes that companies must address these issues to cultivate an environment conducive to women’s advancement in leadership.
To overcome existing barriers, she encourages women to remain prepared, continuously develop their skills, and maintain a strong work ethic. Asha believes that actively demonstrating competence and readiness will position them favorably for leadership opportunities. Furthermore, she advocates for mining companies to implement policies ensuring equality and support for women, alongside establishing mentorship and networking initiatives.
Asha cites Refiloe Kekana as her role model, admiring her commitment to empowering women and creating a supportive environment within the workforce. Asha stresses the necessity for flexible working arrangements to help retain talented women, particularly those balancing family responsibilities and demanding job roles.
In summary, Asha Mambo’s journey through the mining industry illuminates her as a powerful advocate for gender diversity. Through her leadership, mentorship, and steadfast commitment to addressing the challenges women face, she significantly contributes to fostering an inclusive and equitable mining sector in Tanzania.
Asha Mambo’s impactful journey in the mining industry underscores her commitment to enhancing gender diversity and empowering women. By advocating for equal opportunities, mentoring emerging professionals, and promoting flexible working environments, she addresses critical challenges facing women in the sector. Her leadership not only inspires fellow women but also paves the way for an inclusive future in mining engineering in Tanzania.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
