As the year draws to a close, Women in Mining Africa, WiM-Africa, celebrates a year of transformative achievements and progress in advocating for the empowerment of women in the mining sector.
Through groundbreaking initiatives, strategic partnerships, and unwavering advocacy, the organization has significantly impacted communities across the continent, driving sustainable and inclusive mining practices.
One of WiM-Africa’s standout achievements in 2024 was its support for Comfort Ezekiel, a young girl from Kogi State, Nigeria, who lost her arm in a mining accident.
WiM-Africa fully funded her education, offering her a vital opportunity to rebuild her future. This initiative highlights WiM-Africa’s commitment to creating pathways for women and children in mining-affected communities to access education and brighter futures.
Additionally, the launch of the Voices from the Pits (VoC) program, involving 138 partners across 36 countries, has successfully advocated for the removal of children from hazardous mines, promoting sustainable livelihoods and ensuring educational access.
The organization also strengthened its governance with the appointment of a new board and expanded its reach through partnerships with entities like the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) and Resource4Africa.
These collaborations are key to advancing responsible mining practices and ensuring African leadership shapes the future of the sector.
WiM-Africa further advocated for increased representation of women in mining leadership roles, supporting artisanal and small-scale miners through funding initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable practices.
The Executive Director of WiM-Africa, Dr. Comfort Asokoro-Ogaji, earned recognition as one of the WIM100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining for 2024, underscoring her trailblazing leadership.
Reflecting on this honor, she emphasized the collective effort of WiM-Africa’s partners and supporters in driving change.
“Looking ahead to 2025, the organization plans to scale up the VoC program, launch mentorship and capacity-building initiatives, and deepen collaborations with key stakeholders. Our success lays in our partnerships,” Dr. Asokoro-Ogaji stated.
“Together, we can create lasting change, promote responsible mining practices, and ensure women are part of decision-making processes in the mining sector.”