Completion of Kilpgat Decline Boxcut showcases excellence and diversity

DRA Global recently completed construction of the Klipgat Decline Boxcut for African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) at Bokoni Platinum Mine, Polokwane, South Africa.

The successful completion of this project underscores the exceptional teamwork and expertise of the project team, who maintained a positive and determined approach despite encountering challenging geotechnical conditions that required substantial design adjustments.

This project not only demonstrates DRA Global's commitment to technical excellence but also its dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, with an all-female design team.

Congratulations to the team who worked on this project:

  • Tina van Niekerk, Infrastructure Design Engineer, led the infrastructure design, responsible for the boxcut side batters, portal face profiling, and lateral support design aligned with geotechnical requirements and stormwater management.
  • Radostina Ina Achilleoudes, Senior Civil Design Engineer, handled the civil designs for the boxcut floor, stormwater drain channels, and sump.
  • Nithasha Jeewan, Civil Project Engineer, was responsible for coordinating the design, procuring additional design inputs (rock mechanics for the side slope lateral support), procuring of civil/earthworks contractor for the construction, construction contract management/administration.

Reflecting on the project, the team expressed that working with a diverse team in the Civil engineering department had been an empowering experience.

“The collaboration and mutual support within the team have fostered a strong sense of camaraderie and purpose.

“This project not only highlights the technical expertise and innovative approaches of the team members but also showcases the potential for women to lead and excel in complex engineering design projects.

“It’s inspiring to work for a company that promotes inclusivity and actively works towards a diverse workforce and acknowledge women's significant contributions to the construction industry.”

About DRA Global

DRA Global Limited (ASX: DRA | JSE: DRA) (DRA or the Group) is an international multi-disciplinary engineering, project delivery and operations management group, predominantly focused on the mining, minerals and metals industry.

The Group has an extensive track record spanning four decades across a wide range of commodities. We have delivered more than 8,000 projects, studies and managed services solutions, and currently operate more than a dozen sites through its operations and maintenance division.

Our teams have deep expertise in the mining, minerals and metals processing industries, as well as related non-process infrastructure such as, water, and energy solutions. We deliver comprehensive advisory, engineering and project delivery services throughout the capital project lifecycle, from concept through to operational readiness and commissioning as well as ongoing operations, maintenance and engineering services. We do this with a focus on sustainability and assisting clients to achieve their ESG goals.

DRA covers all major mining centres with offices across Africa and the Middle East, North and South America, and the Asia-Pacific.