Busisiwe Maphalala

Centre of Excellence (CoE) Manager DSTI-NRF CIMERA

Busisiwe Maphalala was appointed CoE Manager at DSTI-NRF CIMERA in May 2025. A SACNASP-registered Professional with more than eight years of experience across South Africa’s mining and research landscape. She began her career as a Geologist at the former AngloGold Ashanti, gaining strong operational experience in hard-rock mining. Driven by the evolving energy sector, she later broadened her academic focus and is currently completing a Master’s in Energy Leadership at the Wits Business School. Busisiwe went on to join the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), where she developed extensive expertise in mining-focused research and project management. Her portfolio has covered key industry priorities including critical minerals, skills for modernised mining, the circular economy, energy efficiency, and sustainability. She has also co-authored several publications, including “South Africa’s Mineral Resource Availability as a Potential Driver for Transitioning to a Circular Economy.” Her ongoing interests include advancing sustainable and responsible mineral extraction, strengthening the skills base for future-ready mines, and supporting South Africa’s positioning in the global critical minerals and energy-transition landscape.