Story by Wellington Makonese
WOMEN are increasingly expanding their footprint in Zimbabwe’s mining sector, moving beyond traditional gold mining into semi-precious stones and mineral value addition as the country intensifies efforts to boost beneficiation and industrialisation.
The mining sector contributes more than 15 percent to Zimbabwe’s Gross Domestic Product and accounts for between 75 and 80 percent of export earnings, making it one of the country’s key economic drivers.
Female miners say policy reforms and growing opportunities in the sector are enabling them to diversify operations, create additional income streams and reduce overreliance on gold mining.
“I began this trade because it is profitable, and we are getting more returns than in gold mining. Mining used to be dominated by men, but now women are getting opportunities to participate and improve their livelihoods,” a female miner said.
“We are now focusing on value addition so that we benefit more from our minerals instead of selling raw products. Women are now empowered and able to support their families through mining activities.”
Zimbabwe Women in Mining Association representative Ms Gertrude Chimanikire said the increasing participation of women in the sector is transforming livelihoods and broadening economic opportunities.
“Venturing into sectors previously dominated by men has opened new opportunities, with recognition that there are many minerals beyond gold that can generate more income,” she said.
“Semi-precious stones can also be value-added using simple but effective methods. This is transforming lives, with women contributing significantly to the country’s GDP as the nation moves towards an upper middle-income economy.”
Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Owen Ncube, said investment and industrial growth in the province are creating more opportunities for women in mining and downstream industries.
“The Second Republic has opened up the mining sector in Midlands Province through major investments and partnerships. Companies operating in the province are supporting women in mining and empowering communities through economic opportunities,” he said.
The growing participation of women in mining comes as Zimbabwe steps up efforts to promote mineral beneficiation and strengthen local value chains in line with its industrialisation agenda.
