Govt pushes for gender equality in mining industry

The government has called for increased partnerships to enhance gender inclusion in the mining industry.

Mines and Mineral Development Permanent Secretary, Hapenga Kabeta, expressed concern over the underrepresentation of women in the mining value chain.

Speaking at the opening of the Mopani Women in Mining Forum in Kitwe on Wednesday.

Kabeta emphasized the need for deliberate policies to promote gender inclusivity and diversity in the sector.

“We are pushing for gender inclusivity and diversity in the country’s mining supply value chain to broaden mining-induced economic benefits,” Kabeta said, highlighting that mining is a cornerstone of Zambia’s economy and requires concerted efforts to boost the participation of women.

He also called on the academia to provide technical support to women-led enterprises in the mining industry, stressing the importance of empowering women at every level to address their low participation.

Small and Medium Enterprise Development Permanent Secretary, Subeta Mutelo, assured that the Ministry was doing everything possible to increase women’s participation in the sector.

Mopani Copper Mines (MCM) Chief Executive Officer, Charles Sakanya, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to gender inclusion by providing opportunities for women in the mine supply value chain.

“We are committed to gender inclusion by providing deliberate spaces for women, and we urge them to take part in the industry,” he said.

Copperbelt University (CBU) Vice Chancellor, Imasiku Nyambe, added that the academic community was ready to help women in mining upskill and enhance their ability to conduct business within the mining value chain.

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