In this blog, we highlight the experience of our current intern here at The Impact Facility, Sharon Chepng’eno, a recent Mining and Minerals Processing Engineer graduate from the Kenyan Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology.

After high school I realised that I would not be admitted into medical school, I had failed one of my major subjects; biology, As I navigated through the university placement portal in search of alternative courses, I realised  that my cousin had selected  Mining engineering, for some reason, I was inclined to follow suit and fill the remaining blank space. To my surprise, I received an admission letter from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology to pursue a degree in Mining and Mineral Processing Engineering. In a country unfamiliar with mining, I faced doubt about my career choice, except for my supportive mother. Being one of the few women in a predominantly male class, I initially questioned my decision. However, interaction with passionate lecturers transformed my perception. During my attachment with The Impact Facility, engaging with artisanal and small-scale gold miners revealed my passion for imparting knowledge to communities with limited technical skills. This experience ignited my interest in Occupational and Environmental Health and Safety, driving me to promote responsible mining practices. The opportunity not only provided invaluable experiences but also inspired my final year project.

In a country unfamiliar with mining, I faced doubt about my career choice, except for my supportive mother. Being one of the few women in a predominantly male class, I initially questioned my decision. However, interaction with passionate lecturers transformed my perception. During my attachment with The Impact Facility, engaging with artisanal and small-scale gold miners revealed my passion for imparting knowledge to communities with limited technical skills. This experience ignited my interest in Occupational and Environmental Health and Safety, driving me to promote responsible mining practices. The opportunity not only provided invaluable experiences but also inspired my final year project.

Upon finishing my undergraduate studies in December last year, I got a second opportunity now as an intern at The Impact Facility. This opportunity is supported by BRUNA, a jewellery company championing women in mining which sponsored my internship so that I could participate in their “Going Mercury Free in Gold Processing” initiative. To empower women in the industry, the project is centred on women-led processing facilities. The purpose of this project is to eradicate the harmful use of mercury in ASGM practices, in line with the Minamata Convention, Mercury, a heavy metal, is typically in liquid form at room temperature and has a strong attraction to metals like gold. Artisanal miners use mercury to capture gold particles in the final stages of processing. However, its use poses significant health risks, particularly to the nervous system when inhaled or in contact with open wounds. This makes it hazardous, especially for women skilled in gold processing. My heart swells with the promise of contributing to a cleaner, safer future for miners and the environment.

This pivotal opportunity with BRUNA marks a significant milestone in my career, one that is centred on OHS and impacting the work of women in mining. The project, “Going Mercury-Free in Gold Processing,” encompasses comprehensive research using sieve analysis and fire assay to establish what are likely to be the most effective approaches for extracting gold from ore, taking into account the specific properties such as size and geological properties of gold-bearing ore in this region. The results will play a crucial role in coming up with a proposal for alternative mercury-free processing techniques, thereby enhancing sustainable practices within the mining industry. As part of my work, I will be sensitising women to the importance of operational health and safety practices, record keeping, and financial management.

I am incredibly grateful for the great opportunities from The Impact Facility and BRUNA that have shaped my journey, and I eagerly anticipate the prospect of making meaningful contributions to a more sustainable and responsible mining industry. There are many women around the globe who, like me, are passionate about mining and its potential for positive change. We are a growing force, ready to challenge the stereotypes and misconceptions that have long surrounded this industry. And this is just the beginning.
The future beckons, filled with the potential to make a real difference. I envision a mining industry where women are not just participants but leaders, driving innovation and shaping a future where environmental and social responsibility are paramount.