Miranda Mpeta, from Zimbabwe, is a researcher and PhD candidate in chemical engineering at the University of Pretoria. Her research explores innovative bioleaching techniques to recover gold from problematic mine wastewater and tailings, prioritizing environmental sustainability by reducing cyanide and advancing a circular economy for women in mining through value-added products. With a master’s degree in sanitary engineering, Miranda is well-versed in industrial waste management and mining environmental implications. Her upbringing in Zimbabwe, where mining is both economically vital and environmentally destructive, inspired her to pursue sustainable mining solutions. She has witnessed first-hand the hardships faced by women and children in mining communities, which drives her commitment to equitable and sustainable practices.
Passionate about empowering women in mining, Miranda collaborates with the Zimbabwe Association of Women in Mining Associations (ZAWIMA) She participates in knowledge exchange between female miners and experts, and supports education of sustainable mining practices, often addressing the disproportionate impact on women and children. She leads community projects on improvement of clean water access, responsible mining, and sustainable practices to create a safer environment for children in mining communities. Miranda also mentors young girls in STEM and has served as a patron for Women in Engineering at Chinhoyi University of Technology.
Her future plans include influencing environmental policy in Zimbabwe and empowering women she has been working with across Anglo-African and Caribbean countries with transformative mining solutions, bridging the gap between innovation and practical implementation to create lifelong change.
