Who We Are
Championing Gender Equality, Sustainability, and Economic Growth
Women’s involvement in the artisanal mining industry straddles all the value chain including the digging, processing, washing, crushing, sorting ores, and transporting of the various minerals, some of which are very harmful to human health.
For the women, many who are the key breadwinners of their homes, the artisanal mining engagement provides an essential source of their income. In this way, the income earned from mining contributes considerably to their households’ economic well-being. Data also reveals that they use their earnings to support their families, including paying for food, education, healthcare, and other basic needs.
Sadly, their involvement in artisanal mining exposes the women to various challenges and risks, including exposure to hazardous working conditions, environmental degradation, and health hazards associated with mining activities. They also confront social and cultural obstacles that limit their participation and access to resources.
NIWIMNRO joins the growing chain of efforts of civic groups and, increasingly, from governments, to distinguish the status of women in artisanal mining, and address gender-specific issues and promote gender equality within the sector that embraces initiatives at enabling women’s access to resources, education, and healthcare, as well as advocating for their rights and safety in the workplace.
Building Economies and Sustainable Development
Efforts to support and empower women in artisanal mining invariably support both the economy and household healthiness, even as it builds the foundation of an inclusive and sustainable development within the sector and the broader society.
Our Vision
Our vision is a world where women artisanal miners are recognized, valued, and empowered as key contributors to sustainable and equitable development. We envision thriving communities where women in artisanal mining have access to resources, opportunities, and support systems that enable them to lead dignified and prosperous lives while preserving environmental integrity and fostering social justice.
Our Mission
To empower and advocate for women artisanal miners, fostering their inclusion, safety, and prosperity within the mining sector while promoting gender equality, sustainable development, and community resilience.
OUR APPROACH
NIWIMNRO STRATEGIES
Access to Resources
NIWIMNRO Improve women’s access to essential resources such as land, credit, equipment, and technology. This can be achieved through targeted policies, financial assistance programs, and partnerships with microfinance institutions and other stakeholders.
Research, Data Collection, Technology, and Innovation
NIWIMNRO Introduce appropriate technologies and innovations that can improve the efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability of artisanal mining activities. This includes collaboration with technology colleges for the development of low-cost tools, equipment, and processing techniques suitable for women miners.
Markets and Value Chains Access
NIWIMNRO assists access to markets and value chains for women-produced minerals and products. This involves supporting market linkages, certification schemes, and fair-trade initiatives that prioritise gender equality, sustainability, and ethical practices.
Community Development and Social Services
nvest in community development projects and social services that benefit women miners and their families, such as healthcare facilities, schools, childcare centers, and clean water supply systems. Addressing basic needs can enhance women’s well-being and enable them to fully participate in mining activities.
Partnerships and Collaboration
We foster partnerships and collaboration among government agencies, NGOs, operators [mining companies], academia, and community-based organizations to coordinate efforts, share best practices, and mobilize resources for women’s empowerment in the artisanal sector.
Capacity Development
NIWIMNRO Provides training and educational programmes designed for women in the artisanal sector to enhance their productivity, safety, and income-generating opportunities by focusing on safety practices, technical and entrepreneurial skills development.
Stakeholder Sensitisation
An important component of our outreach work is also the sensitization work about gender issues in the artisanal sector among stakeholders, which includes government agencies, mining companies, civil society organizations, and local communities. In this regard, we promote gender mainstreaming and inclusivity in all aspects of mining policy, planning, and implementation.
Empowerment and Leadership Development
We empower women miners by promoting their participation in decision-making processes, leadership roles, and community development initiatives. NIWIMNRO encourages the formation of women’s cooperatives and associations to amplify their voices and strengthen their bargaining power.
Policy and Legislative Support
The development and enforcement of policies and legislation that promote gender equality, protect the rights of women miners, and address gender-specific challenges in the artisanal sector are key components of NIWIMNRO’s tools for establishing its goals. This includes measures to ensure safe working conditions, access to healthcare, and protection against discrimination and violence.
meet the team