In this episode of The Bilna Sandeep Show, we sit down with Rabia Ghaly, Mining & Petroleum Engineer/ Drill & Blast and QA\QC Engineer at Kinross and Founder of MauriSync, to uncover the realities of working in gold mines, how AI is transforming mining operations, and why Mauritania is becoming a hot spot for global investors.
Women in Gold Mining: Africa’s Hidden Potential – With Rabia Ghaly
In this episode of The Bilna Sandeep Show, we explore the world of mining through the inspiring journey of Rabia Ghaly, a Mauritania-based Drill and Blast Engineer, mining specialist, and founder of MauriSync Energy & Minerals. As a woman thriving in one of the world’s toughest industries, Rabia sheds light on what mining truly looks like—from blasting rock to extracting gold, empowering women, and attracting global investors to Africa.
Rabia’s Journey Into Mining
Growing up in Mauritania, Rabia did not initially imagine becoming a mining engineer—especially coming from a conservative culture where engineering was traditionally male-dominated. But an early mining internship changed everything. Seeing the massive equipment, dynamic work environment, and constant technical challenges sparked a passion that shaped her path.
With strong family support, especially from her mother, Rabia pursued engineering across three countries:
- Mauritania, where her journey began
- Morocco, where she earned two mining degrees
- Paris, where she completed a scholarship in petroleum engineering at IFP School
This global exposure shaped her perspective as she returned home to build her career.
Life as a Drill & Blast Engineer
Rabia works on a remote mine site using a rotation system of 12 days on-site and 9 days off. Her day starts at 5 AM—reviewing KPIs, attending shift meetings, and working on drilling designs.
The process is highly technical:
- Drill the rock
- Load explosives
- Execute the blast
- Separate waste from ore based on geological models
- Send the ore for crushing and chemical treatment
Only after processing does gold appear in its recognizable yellow form.
Mauritania is also rich in iron, copper, quartz, and other minerals essential for global green energy transitions.
AI and Technology in Mining
Rabia explains how AI is transforming the industry by analyzing blast data, predicting rock movement, improving fragmentation, and enhancing pit stability. Combining AI with drone imaging is helping mines improve safety and efficiency across operations.
Women in Mining
Mining is traditionally male-dominated, but Rabia highlights a steady rise in women on mining sites. Today, women in Mauritania are even driving 200–250 ton haul trucks, working long shifts, and stepping confidently into technical roles.
She believes that passion, education, and exposure are key to helping more women enter engineering and heavy industries.
Mauritania: A Rising Investment Destination
Africa’s shift toward green energy has increased global demand for critical minerals such as lithium, copper, nickel, and rare earth elements. Mauritania is politically stable, resource-rich, and geographically strategic—bordering the Atlantic Ocean and close to Europe.
In addition to mining, the country offers investment prospects in:
- Fisheries
- Infrastructure
- Natural gas (production began in 2025)
Rabia’s company, MauriSync, supports global investors by guiding them through opportunities in Mauritania and promoting the nation’s potential.
Changing Global Perceptions of Africa
Rabia emphasizes that Africa should not be seen as “high risk,” but rather high potential. With abundant natural resources and an increasingly educated younger generation, Africa is positioned for major growth.
She encourages young African women—especially girls interested in STEM—to pursue engineering and mining careers. If she could do it, she believes they can too.
Final Thoughts
Rabia’s story is a powerful reminder that passion, education, and determination can reshape industries and redefine expectations. Her journey reflects not only the rise of women in mining but also Africa’s growing influence in global energy, minerals, and investment. As the world looks toward sustainable futures, leaders like Rabia are proving that Africa has both the resources and the talent to drive meaningful change.
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