Kgotso steers Khanye to reach milestones

Khanye Mine Manager, Kgotso Mongalo

Kgotso Mongalo returned as Khanye Colliery’s mine manager, with the intention of upholding the mine’s status as Canyon Coal’s flagship operation. About five years ago, before moving to Phalanndwa, Kgotso served as Khanye’s Mine Manager. Shortly after his return last year, the mine performed well, producing 190 020 tonnes in June, 205 870 tonnes in July, and 232 472 tonnes in August against a target of 200 000 tonnes.

“I’m a safety-oriented person because I strongly believe that before we begin production, we must ensure that everyone is working in a safe environment,” Kgotso explains. Since his return, the mine has experienced an improvement of over 90% in its safety performance. “With over 600 employees, we must ensure they go home safely each day.” Kgotso credits the mine’s achievements to Khanye’s supportive teamwork. “It is not just about what I say, but how we work together to reach our goals as a team. By collaborating, we can definitely achieve our targets.” He dedicates significant time to visible felt leadership (VFL) by regularly interacting with employees, supervisors, and department heads across the mine.

A champion of empowering, upskilling, and promoting, Kgotso is passionate about grooming people for career growth and success. “Employees must understand that we genuinely care about their career progression as well as their work.” He shares that colleagues he worked with five years ago, before moving to Phalanndwa, are now in higher positions following promotions. “This shows that people want to grow in the mining industry,” he concludes.