By Leo Zwànke, Lafia
In a bid to combat gender-based violence (GBV) in mining communities, the Ford Foundation, in collaboration with the Association of Women in Mining in Nigeria (WIMIN), has launched a major initiative in Nasarawa State. The campaign was unveiled during a three-day skills acquisition and project review program aimed at eliminating sexual and gender-based violence at mining sites across the state.
Engr. Janet Adeyemi, National President of the Association of Women in Mining, emphasized the organization’s dedication to addressing GBV within the Nigerian mining sector. She highlighted their partnership with the Nasarawa State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to create safer environments for women working in or living around mining sites.
“We are committed to empowering women at every level within the Nigerian mining industry,” Adeyemi stated. “This commitment extends beyond economic empowerment. We believe in fostering community engagement, enhancing capacity building, and forming strategic partnerships.”
Adeyemi further stressed that the organization’s mission, centered on diversity, equity, and inclusion, places a strong focus on protecting vulnerable groups, particularly women and children, within artisanal mining communities.
She acknowledged progress made in tackling one of the industry’s most pressing challenges—sexual and gender-based violence—and noted that women continue to bear the brunt of such violence in mining communities. To address this, AWIN is collaborating with the Ford Foundation and the Ministry of Women Affairs, under the leadership of Hajiya Aisha Rufai Ibrahim.
Speaking at the event, Hajiya Aisha Rufai Ibrahim, Nasarawa State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, reiterated the government’s commitment to fighting GBV. Represented by Mr. Clement Audu, Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics at the ministry, she explained that a management committee had been established to address GBV-related cases.
“The ministry has also engaged the Ministry of Justice to assist in handling legal matters related to GBV,” Audu said. He encouraged women to report any cases they encounter, adding that economic challenges remain a significant issue for women in the state.
Yusuf Dalhatu Randal, Chairman of the Miners Association in Nasarawa State, commended the program’s participants and expressed his appreciation for the initiative. He called for more programs aimed at eliminating gender-based violence at mining sites.
“This program is a crucial step in addressing the challenges faced by women in mining communities. We need more initiatives like this to create a safe environment for all,” Randal remarked.
Our correspondent reports that the three-day workshop is expected to equip women in mining communities with the skills, knowledge, and support needed to overcome challenges and build a future free of violence.
