The Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development has encouraged women to seize opportunities and participate in the mining sector, challenging the outdated notion that mining is exclusively for men.

Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development, Hapenga Kabeta, stated that the government has established funds under the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) initiative to empower women’s participation in the mining sector.

“The government has created various empowerment funds which women can access for financial support,” Dr. Kabeta said.

In an interview with ZANIS in Lusaka, Dr Kabeta emphasized that the government is working on creating structures within small-scale mining to provide a reliable supply chain and generate reasonable income for those involved.

He said acknowledging the current disparity in participation rates between men and women in the mining sector, the ministry recognizes that more men are involved in mining compared to women.

Dr. Kabeta said the government’s goal is to create an inclusive environment for women to contribute their expertise and assist them in developing their skills and knowledge.