Powering Change: Women & Critical Minerals

Project Summary

AWIMA proposes a targeted initiative to empower African women in the critical minerals value chain—essential for green transitions and energy access.

Despite active roles in extraction and processing, women artisanal and small-scale miners are excluded from formal markets, training, financing, and ESG frameworks. This project will build their capacity through training on geology, environmental safety, financial literacy, market access, and responsible sourcing. It targets key mineral-rich countries like Zambia, DRC, Tanzania, Madagascar, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Senegal, and Ghana. AWIMA will also develop a continental database of women in critical minerals and connect them to responsible sourcing partners.

Building on its AfricaMaVal ESG work, AWIMA will partner with WIM associations, AMDC, CSOs, cooperatives, and other project partners to promote inclusive and sustainable value chains.

Presentation of the Organization

AWIMA is a pan-African network of 42 national Women in Mining associations promoting women’s leadership, inclusion, and sustainable development in the extractive industries. It leads advocacy, capacity building, and policy engagement. As project lead, AWIMA ensures strategic coordination and impact.