As we approach the end of the year, Women in Mining Africa (WiM-Africa) proudly reflects on a year of substantial progress and milestones. WiM-Africa has continued to strengthen its role in advocating for the rights and empowerment of women in the mining sector, particularly in Africa. Through transformative initiatives, strategic collaborations, and ongoing advocacy, the organization has made a significant impact across the continent.
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 launch of the Voices from the Pits (VoC) program has also been a monumental success. With the participation of 138 implementing partners across 36 countries, this program is advocating for the removal of children from hazardous mines and promoting the provision of sustainable livelihoods in mining communities. The program 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.
In 2024, WiM-Africa strengthened its governance through the appointment of a new board, which brings diverse leadership and expertise. The organization 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.
In a landmark achievement, Dr. Comfort Asokoro-Ogaji, Executive Director of WiM-Africa, was recognized as one of the WIM100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining for 2024. This prestigious acknowledgment is a testament to her pioneering leadership, resilience, and advocacy for women in mining. The WIM100 recognition by the Women in Mining UK (WIMUK) honors trailblazers who are making significant contributions to the mining industry, ensuring that it operates in a responsible, sustainable, and inclusive manner.
Dr. Asokoro-Ogaji shared her thoughts on the recognition, stating, “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.”
A notable achievement is the Participation in Cornwall Mining and Geothermal Tour. In line with WiM-Africa commitment to advancing sustainable mining practices and empowering women in the industry, the Executive Director of Women in Mining Africa (WiM-Africa), participated in a transformative tour of leading mining and energy facilities in Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK). The tour included visits to Cornish Metals, Eden Geothermal Grinding Solutions Ltd (GSL), British Lithium and Imerys China Clay Operations, providing invaluable insights into cutting-edge technologies and best practices in mining, energy, and mineral processing.
The knowledge gained from this tour has been instrumental in enhancing WiM-Africa leadership understanding of the improvements needed in mining operations, particularly in terms of sustainability, safety, and efficiency. It also provided deeper insights into the role of laboratories in the mining process and the importance of integrating advanced technological solutions into operations.
This tour organized by the Women in Mining UK with notable sponsors underscored the value of global knowledge exchange and collaboration, further reinforcing WiM-Africa’s mission to uplift women in mining and promote responsible mining practices across Africa.
Executive Director, WiM-Africa, Dr. Comfort Asokoro-Ogaji (Right) and Denise Molmou (Left) from the Republic of Guinea with members of Women In Mining, United Kingdom, recently, in London.
The experience will directly contribute to the organization’s continued efforts in supporting the professional growth of women in the industry and advocating for environmentally sustainable mining practices.
As WiM-Africa looks ahead to 2025, the organization is focused on expanding its existing programs and launching new initiatives to create a more significant impact across Africa.
This includes scaling up the VoC program, launching additional mentorship and capacity-building initiatives, and deepening its partnerships with stakeholders, including corporate organizations, universities, international NGOs, and African leaders.
Dr. Asokoro-Ogaji emphasized the importance of these collaborations, stating: “Our success is dependent on the strength of our partnerships. By working together, we can create lasting change, promote responsible mining practices, and ensure that women have a seat at the table in decision-making processes. The future of the mining sector in Africa depends on our collective commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and empowerment.”
WiM-Africa’s vision for 2025 is to empower even more women in the mining sector, creating opportunities for education, leadership, and sustainable development.
