For more than 20 years Aspasa director, Nico Pienaar, has focussed his energy on bringing about fair trade in the mining industry while promoting safer, healthier and more environmentally sustainable mining practices.
His efforts have recently been rewarded with two separate awards which were made in quick succession. The first was presented to him by the Minister of Mineral Resources, Gwede Mantashe, at the Mine Occupational Health and Safety Summit which was held in Benoni recently. The special award was made in recognition of his valuable and ongoing contributions to the Mine Health and Safety Council (MHSC) as director of surface mining industry association, Aspasa.
Aspasa is a long-serving member of the MHSC and serves on numerous committees and boards where its primary focus is to create a fair and equitable environment for its members to operate in. It is also at the forefront of instilling ever-safer mining practices with zero harm to those on and around the mine at the forefront of its efforts. Also, to promote environmentally friendly practices.
Nico was also awarded a CEO Global Titans Building Nations Award 2018 for unsung heroes of the African business landscape. It is made in recognition of individuals who carry out important work behind the scenes to improve trading conditions and the lives of all in the sector with the motto “Do your best to inspire others, to do the same”.
Speaking of the awards, Nico said that he was honoured that his efforts on behalf of Aspasa have been recognised. “It has really been a collaboration of all within the association, as well as our members who have driven us to do the best for our sector and the entire mining industry.
“Aspasa remains at the forefront of promoting good mining practices and we continue to break new ground in the delivery of mining practices that are safer and less harmful to the environment, while remaining profitable and sustainable for generations to come.