Nombasa Tsengwa, the former CEO of Exxaro Resources, has spoken publicly for the first time since her sudden departure earlier this year. Despite her exit being surrounded by controversy, she says her career with the mining company was very rewarding and she remains proud of her achievements.
Tsengwa took over as CEO in 2023, after working for the company for more than twenty years. She initially joined when it was known as Kumba, before it was unbundled in 2006. She credits Exxaro with helping her grow professionally and praised the company’s careful succession planning, which allowed her to reach the top position.
In her interview, she expressed her pride in what Exxaro is and will continue to achieve in the future. Although her departure was under unfortunate circumstances, she insists it does not diminish her respect and admiration for the organisation. She reflected on how much the company had helped her develop and said she wished she could have stayed longer, having prepared herself for the role of CEO for many years.
Tsengwa also said she is now watching the company from afar, confident that the new leadership will carry on the good work. She believes the organisation will continue to succeed and grow, building on the foundation she helped establish.
Her exit was triggered by her suspension in December, over alleged workplace and governance issues. She later resigned in February after losing a court case that sought to overturn her suspension. Her resignation letter revealed her disappointment with how the investigation was handled, believing the process was biased and predetermined.
One of the accusations against her was a conflict of interest involving her late partner’s company, which she was accused of helping through payments and purchases. Tsengwa strongly denies any wrongdoing, stating that she always put Exxaro’s interests first and never prioritised her personal interests.
Her career in mining began in 2003 when she joined Kumba Resources as the head of safety, health and environment. After Kumba’s unbundling, she took on various executive roles before being appointed CEO through a carefully planned succession process.
She expressed gratitude for the culture at Exxaro, which she says allowed her to thrive and contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s economy. She feels she was given a real opportunity to make an impact, and she leaves with a positive outlook.
Recently, Exxaro appointed Ben Magara, former CEO of Lonmin, as its new boss, signalling a new chapter for the company.