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3rd Floor, No. 1, Parkshin Close, Off Shagamu Street, Opp. NICCON Luxury, Area 11, Garki - Abuja
3rd Floor, No. 1, Parkshin Close, Off Shagamu Street, Opp. NICCON Luxury, Area 11, Garki - Abuja
The global mining industry plays a critical role in driving economic growth, contributing significantly to GDP, employment, and industrial development. However, gender disparities continue to present a formidable barrier to inclusive participation, particularly for women. Despite the presence of numerous policies aimed at promoting gender equity, their impact is often limited by a lack of sustained commitment and ongoing conflicts among key stakeholders.
In the Nigerian context, women in the mining sector continue to experience systemic discrimination, notwithstanding the proactive measures taken by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to promote inclusivity. Historical challenges, such as “policy evaporation” — where well-crafted gender policies fail to translate into practical action — have further hindered progress. This persistent inequality is starkly reflected in leadership representation, with women occupying a mere 5% of board positions in major mining companies. Such statistics underscore the urgent need for stronger implementation strategies, stakeholder collaboration, and sustained advocacy to bridge the gender gap and unlock the full potential of women in the mining industry.
Speakers
Attendees
Under representation in Leadership: Women’s absence in leadership roles restricts their influence over relevant policies. Cultural and Social Biases: Traditional gender roles and harassment deter women’s engagement in mining. Limited Access to Education and Training: Barriers to education hinder women’s career advancement and skills development.
Economic Limitations: Exclusion from decision-making roles perpetuates poverty.
Unsafe Working Conditions: Women face dangerous working environments and gender
based violence, necessitating improved safety measures.
Social Marginalization: Predominantly male cultures contribute to women’s isolation and
decreased self-esteem.
Existing initiatives to empower women in mining are fragmented, highlighting the need for a unified platform that brings together stakeholders across the mining value and supply chain. This platform would facilitate dialogue and policy discussions aimed at promoting women’s empowerment, especially in artisanal and small-scale mining.
The conference aims to establish a dynamic platform for stakeholders to engage in dialogue and commit to advancing women’s interests in the mining sector.
February 20 2025 @ 9:00 am – 4:30pm
Ladi Kwali Hall, Abuja Continental Hotel, Abuja
Ngozichi Okorie