The Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC) Matabeleland Region reaffirmed its commitment to advancing gender equality and women’s economic empowerment after participating in the official launch of the Zimbabwe Artisanal and Small-Scale Women Miners Association (ZASWMA) during MineEntra 2026 in Bulawayo.
The launch of the association marked an important milestone for women involved in Zimbabwe’s artisanal and small-scale mining sector, providing a platform to amplify their voices, strengthen representation, and promote inclusive growth within one of the country’s most important economic industries.
The event brought together women miners, policymakers, development partners, and stakeholders committed to building a mining sector that offers equal opportunities for all.
During the event, the Zimbabwe Gender Commission presented a comprehensive paper highlighting the realities faced by women working in mining. The presentation examined the social, economic, and occupational challenges confronting women miners, including limited access to finance, land and mining claims, inadequate safety measures, gender discrimination, and barriers to accessing modern mining equipment and markets.
The Commission also outlined strategic interventions aimed at creating a more inclusive mining environment. These included strengthening policies that protect women miners, promoting equal participation in decision-making structures, improving access to training and financial resources, enhancing workplace safety, and encouraging stronger collaboration between government institutions and mining associations.
The discussions reinforced the importance of ensuring that women are not only participants in the mining industry but are also empowered to become leaders, entrepreneurs, and contributors to national economic development.
Stakeholders agreed that supporting women miners has the potential to improve household incomes, create employment opportunities, and stimulate sustainable community development.
One of the highlights of the occasion came when the Zimbabwe Gender Commission received a unique token of appreciation from the women miners.
The Commission was presented with a beautifully crafted portrait made from gemstones, symbolising the deep appreciation for its continued advocacy and support for gender equality within the mining sector.
The artwork reflected both the creativity and resilience of Zimbabwe’s women miners while celebrating the partnership between the Commission and the mining community.
Receiving the gift, the Commission described the gesture as a powerful reminder of the importance of working together to eliminate barriers that prevent women from fully participating in economic activities.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that women’s rights remain central to policy discussions affecting the mining industry.
As Zimbabwe continues to promote artisanal and small-scale mining as a key driver of economic growth, the Zimbabwe Gender Commission says it will continue championing initiatives that create equal opportunities, protect the rights of women, and promote inclusive development.
The Commission maintains that when women miners are empowered to thrive in safe and supportive environments, families, communities, and the national economy all benefit.