The Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development has called on women to take advantage of available opportunities and actively participate in the mining sector, challenging the long-held perception that mining is a male-dominated industry.
Permanent Secretary Hapenga Kabeta emphasized that the government has put in place financial empowerment initiatives under the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) program to support women in mining.
“The government has created various empowerment funds which women can access for financial support,” Dr. Kabeta stated in an interview with ZANIS in Lusaka.
He noted that the ministry is working to structure small-scale mining operations to ensure a stable supply chain and generate reasonable income for those involved. Acknowledging the current gender gap in the sector, Dr. Kabeta highlighted that more men than women are engaged in mining activities.
However, he reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that enables women to contribute their expertise, develop their skills, and gain knowledge to thrive in the mining industry.
With targeted support and policy interventions, the government aims to break barriers and encourage more women to take up roles in the mining sector, ensuring equal opportunities for all.