A bold step towards zero harm: Morupule Coal Mine Unveils the 2025 - 2027 SHE Strategy

Friday, 28 February 2025 marked a defining moment for Morupule Coal Mine (MCM) as it launched its SHE Strategy 2025–2027, a transformative roadmap designed to fortify a culture of Zero Harm across all operations.

In her welcome remarks, the Head of Safety and Sustainability Ms. Patricia Nkuna underscored the significance of this new strategy describing it as “a bold step forward towards fostering a culture of Zero Harm, which will safeguard lives and improve operational efficiency, regulatory adherence, and overall safety.” She reflected on MCM’s 24-year legacy of operational excellence, marked by zero fatalities, and highlighted the mines recent re-certification in ISO 14001 and ISO 45001. However, while recognising that these achievements merit celebration, she cautioned that this year's safety performance thus far had not met expectations, urging employees to change this trend before it escalates into a critical situation.

Unveiling the strategy, Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Edwin Elias, introduced the powerful tagline: “Zero Harm: Our Pledge, Our Purpose, Our Pride for Excellence.” He emphasised, “Safety must remain at the forefront of everything we do. As we move forward, let us commit to making our workplace one where safety is not just a policy but a deeply ingrained culture that provides a safe, healthy working conditions that prevents work-related injuries and ill health in a sustainable environment appropriate to MCM employees and its stakeholders.” Mr Elias declared that the new SHE strategy was built upon three core pillars, calling for: Zero Harm Mindset, Zero Repeats  and Mandatory Standards.

As a demonstration of their commitment, employees were implored to take the SHE Pledge, a solemn promise to uphold safety, health and environmental excellence through:

• No Shortcuts

• Leadership

• Personal Responsibility

• Togetherness

• Sustainability

During his address , Mr. Elias took a moment to applaud and recognise MCM employees who had participated in the SHE Strategy tagline and war cry competition. He expressed his gratitude for their invaluable contributions, emphasising how their creativity and commitment play a vital role in driving a strong safety culture within the organisation.

Delivering a thought-provoking and inspiring motivational speech, Dr. Ditiro Majadibodu reminded MCM employees that “our current reality is the product of past decisions.” He challenged them to embrace a mindset of resilience, intentionality and responsibility—like eagles that soar above challenges, always prepared for whatever life may bring. His words served as a powerful call to action, encouraging employees to take ownership of their personal and professional growth.

Bringing the launch event to a close, the Head of Beneficiation, Mr. Nelson Nareetsile, applauded the collective effort that shaped the new SHE Strategy. He underscored the importance of unity and commitment, urging employees to “rally behind this transformative SHE Strategy to ensure MCM continues to lead Botswana’s coal mining sector safely, sustainably, and responsibly.” His remarks reinforced the company’s vision for a safer and more sustainable future, reminding employees that their dedication is key to driving meaningful change.

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