Taking a Stand: WIMIN’s Campaign to End Gender and Child Abuse in Nigeria’s Mining Sector
The Women in Mining Nigeria (WIMIN) is advocating for strategic measures to put an end to gender and child abuse in the mining sector. The organization is dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive environment for women in the mining industry, whether they are professionals or artisans pursuing their passion for mining.
At a national summit held in Abuja, Engr. Janet Adeyemi, the president of WIMIN, emphasized the commitment of the organization to eradicate gender-based abuse in Nigeria’s mining sector. The summit, with the theme ‘Safeguarding the Rights of Women and Children in the Solid Mineral Sector’, was organized in collaboration with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and the Open Society Foundation (OSF).
Adeyemi highlighted the efforts of WIMIN in Bauchi State, where they engaged with key stakeholders in the solid minerals sector and conducted a State Policy Dialogue to address gender and child abuse. As a result of their advocacy, the organization successfully established a State Chapter of Women in Mining in Bauchi State, empowering female miners to champion their cause.
In addition to their work in Bauchi State, WIMIN has been actively involved in engaging the Kogi State Ministry of Women Affairs to protect and enforce children’s rights. The program manager of WIMIN, Deloraine Dennis, stressed the importance of creating more access to justice and rights for women in the mining sector.
Dennis also raised concerns about the exclusion of women from decision-making processes and leadership positions in the mining sector. Adeyemi acknowledged the challenges faced by WIMIN in investigating cases of child labour and abuse due to limited resources, but expressed their determination to address these issues at both the state and national levels.
The organization has partnered with the National Human Rights Commission and has been integrated into the solid minerals sector of Nigeria since 2018 by the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development. Adeyemi called for the support of state actors and all stakeholders in the sector to help WIMIN in their efforts to end gender abuse, child labour, and molestation in the mining sector.
This campaign by WIMIN is a significant step towards safeguarding the rights of women and children in Nigeria’s mining sector. Through their advocacy and collaborations, they are striving to create a more inclusive and safe environment for all individuals involved in the industry. As they continue their work, it is crucial for all stakeholders to support their efforts in order to bring about meaningful change.
In conclusion, WIMIN’s dedication to addressing gender and child abuse in the mining sector is commendable, and their efforts are an important contribution to promoting the rights of women and children in Nigeria. It is essential for the industry as a whole to work towards creating a more equitable and secure environment for all individuals involved in mining.
