WiM-Africa Lists Gains, Sets Goals

A women empowerment group, Women in Mining Africa (WiM-Africa), has described the outgoing year 2024 as one in which the organisation made progress and reached some milestones.

In a statement, WiM-Africa said it strengthened its advocacy for the rights and empowerment of women in the mining sector, particularly in Africa, through transformative initiatives, strategic collaborations, and ongoing activism.

It said: “One of the standout achievements of the year was WiM-Africa’s support for Comfort Ezekiel, a young girl from Kogi State, Nigeria, who lost her arm in a mining accident. Comfort’s life has taken a positive turn as WiM-Africa fully funded her education, providing a vital opportunity for her to rebuild her future despite the tragic setback. This initiative aligns with WiM-Africa’s commitment to creating pathways for women and children in mining-affected communities to access education and a better future.”

The statement also highlighted the success of WiM-Africa’s launch of the Voices from the Pits (VoC) programme, which advocates for the removal of children from hazardous mines and promotes the provision of sustainable livelihoods in mining communities. It said there were now 138 implementing partners across 36 countries.

It said the programme is gaining significant momentum, with WiM-Africa driving policy changes and engaging stakeholders to ensure children at the mines have access to safe educational opportunities.
WiM-Africa is also deeply involved in data collection efforts regarding mining communities, working closely with local partners to understand the needs of these areas and ensure the proper measures are in place to transition children from the mines to schools, it added.

“In 2024, WiM-Africa strengthened its governance through the appointment of a new board, which brings diverse leadership and expertise. The organisation has also expanded its reach through partnerships with the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) and Resource4Africa. These collaborations are critical in advocating for responsible mining practices and ensuring that African leaders are at the forefront of shaping the future of the sector.

“In line with its mission to support women’s leadership in the mining sector, WiM-Africa has been advocating for greater representation of women miners on boards, in the field, and across various commodities and services. This includes supporting initiatives that provide funding to artisanal and small-scale miners (ASM), with the goal of driving more sustainable practices and empowering these miners with the tools they need to succeed.”

It also said that Dr. Comfort Asokoro-Ogaji, executive director of WiM-Africa, was recognised as one of the WIM100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining for 2024.

“This prestigious acknowledgement is a testament to her pioneering leadership, resilience, and advocacy for women in mining. The WIM100 recognition by the Women in Mining UK (WIMUK) honours trailblazers who are making significant contributions to the mining industry, ensuring that it operates in a responsible, sustainable, and inclusive manner.”

Speaking on the accolade, Dr. Asokoro-Ogaji said: “This recognition is not just a personal achievement; it reflects the collective efforts of WiM-Africa, our partners, volunteers, and supporters across the continent. Together, we are making a tangible impact in the mining sector, advocating for gender equality, responsible practices, and the empowerment of women and communities.”