In a coordinated effort to reshape the mining sector across Africa, the Women in Mining Africa, WiM-Africa is expanding its grassroots presence through the establishment of national and community-based chapters serving as localized platforms for engagement.
This is contained in a statement signed by the Executive Director of the Women in Mining in Africa WiM, Dr. Comfort Asokoro-Ogaji, in Abuja.
The statement says this expansion will open up space for more inclusive participation in the extractive sector.
“From artisanal mining communities to academic institutions and youth networks, this expansion is opening up space for more inclusive participation in the extractive sector,” she stresses.
According to the statement, over 36 African countries, have evolved into one of the continent’s active gender-focused networks in mining and development.
It adds that chapters are providing structured forums where women miners, students, cooperatives, civil society, and sector stakeholders work together to promote more equitable, accountable, and inclusive mining practices.
“Through this growing network, WiM-Africa is advancing its Seven-Point Program Agenda and its strategic focus areas, with particular interest on youth leadership, mineral value addition, digital advocacy, ESG, and safety” Dr. Asokoro-Ogaji notes.
According to the statement, Dr Asokoro-Ogaji, emphasizes that the power of this movement lies in its ability to decentralize leadership, ignite local action, and connect thousands of women and allies across borders with a unified voice.
To ensure effectiveness, WiM-Africa upholds clear standards on governance, gender balance, ethics, and reporting. Approved chapters benefit from structured orientation, implementation tools, and access to joint advocacy campaigns”.
“New chapters are being launched regularly—including diaspora communitie. Men Allyship Chapters are also being established as formal entry points for men committed to gender equity in the mining sector” she states.
“These chapters, composed of 80% male membership, play a vital role in advancing WiM-Africa’s inclusive objectives by promoting respectful allyship, safe workplace cultures, and co-leadership models. From policy engagement to mentorship of women-led cooperatives, men are stepping forward as partners in building a more just and equitable mining industry.
The statement encourages women, youths, and professionals, regardless of gender to explore opportunities for engagement by starting a chapter or connecting with their national focal point.
