Phumudzo Gift Munyai-Matshotshi
PhD Candidate / Innovation Champion for Local Economic Development University of Venda
Phumudzo Gift Munyai-Matshotshi is a Ph.D. candidate specializing in phytoremediation of metals from Klein Letaba gold mine tailings. Her research focuses on the integration of innovation and sustainable practices into local economic development with a particular emphasis on supporting grassroots innovators and promoting techno entrepreneurship.
Recognized for her charismatic and influential leadership, Phumudzo possesses exceptional communication skills that facilitate effective engagement with diverse audiences. Her keen observational and active listening abilities enhance her collaborative approach, allowing her to discern subtle cues and foster productive teamwork. She constantly collaborates with others to achieve optimal outcomes.
Phumudzo is passionate about challenging traditional mining practices, aligning her interest with the principles of disruptive discussions. She advocates for sustainable and environmentally responsible practices addressing the agent need for eco-friendly technologies and strategies to reduce the industry's carbon footprint. A strong proponent of community engagement, she emphasizes the importance of building robust relationships with local communities and stakeholders, while promoting social responsibility and ethical mining practices. Through her work, she is dedicated to driving positive change in the mining sector.
2025 Agenda Sessions
Land - the essential ingredient for mining, yet also the most contested
- Mining is intrinsically land-connected, and that can put it at odds with indigenous and land-connected peoples. How can these tensions best be managed?
- Land is also the home to animals and plants which are under threat in a nature and climate-stressed world. How can mining therefore contribute to a nature positive future?
- Land does not end when mining does, yet mining’s track record with closure is not the best. What should be the approach to responsible closure and post-mine transitions?
Tuesday 04 February 13:20 - 14:05 CTICC1
Disruptive Discussions
- Mining is intrinsically land-connected, and that can put it at odds with indigenous and land-connected peoples. How can these tensions best be managed?
- Land is also the home to animals and plants which are under threat in a nature and climate-stressed world. How can mining therefore contribute to a nature positive future?
- Land does not end when mining does, yet mining’s track record with closure is not the best. What should be the approach to responsible closure and post-mine transitions?