Despite progress, women in the mining sector continue to face significant funding challenges, as highlighted at the inaugural Women in Mining Summit.
According to the President of the Women in Mining Association of Namibia, Zenzi Awases, while Namibia has made significant progress in promoting gender equality, challenges remain, particularly regarding women’s access to funding and resources.
The summit seeks to address these gaps, providing a platform for women to share their experiences and forge connections with potential investors.
“However, one of the biggest challenges we face remains access to funding—and this summit aims to address that gap. Some of these women are joining us today, and together with the Namibian female entrepreneurs will share their stories with us,” she said.
She further stressed the need for policies that empower women, enhance their education and, crucially, ensure their access to financial resources.
The private sector was called upon to promote equal opportunities, while civil society was urged to hold all parties accountable for progress.
“The journey toward gender equality in the extractive industries requires the collective effort of government, the private sector, and civil society. This is not just about ticking boxes or meeting quotas. It’s about recognising the critical role that women play in the development of our nations,” she said.
Also speaking at the event, Nedbank Namibia’s Managing Director Martha Murorua said the recent discoveries of oil and gas offshore Namibia, along with the development of green hydrogen projects, present exciting opportunities for women to engage in emerging sectors.
To capitalise on these prospects, it is essential to provide women with the necessary training, resources and funding to take on pivotal roles.
“As the oil and gas sector expands, we must ensure that women are at the forefront—whether in technical roles, decision-making positions, or entrepreneurial ventures that support this industry,” she said.
This comes as the Women in Mining Association of Namibia (WiMAN), established in 2017, has grown to over 700 members, reflecting the increasing presence and influence of women in mining.
However, statistics reveal that women make up only 18% of the mining workforce in Namibia, with a mere 10% holding executive positions.
The summit’s theme, “Unlocking Financial Empowerment and Driving Inclusive Growth in the Extraction Economy,” emphasises the urgent need to bridge the funding gap that hinders the growth of women-owned businesses in mining.
