14 Aug 2024

The idea that ‘mining is exclusively a male domain’ is limiting, chairperson of the Women in Mining Botswana Organisation (WiMBO), Ms Esther Kanaimba-Senai has said. Ms Kanaimba-Senai was speaking at a press conference on Tuesday to announce the second Pitso of WiMBO to be held August 22-23 in Gaborone. She said women had proven themselves in every facet of the mining industry, ‘from engineering and geology to operations and management’. Ms Kanaimba-Senai therefore encouraged women to join the mining sector, saying that would help to achieve gender equality and bring diverse perspectives and talents to the field. She highlighted that women could bring unique skills and their participation in mining could lead to broader economic benefits, including improved financial stability. By promoting an inclusive and supportive environment, Ms Kanaimba-Senai said, the mining industry could benefit from a diverse workforce that enhanced innovation, problem solving and overall effectiveness, adding that women should pursue careers in mining as that would enrich the industry with broad range of skills and perspectives. “Changing the mindset around women working in mines involves addressing deeply ingrained stereotypes, challenging societal norms and creating a supportive environment that encourages women to pursue and thrive in mining careers,” Ms Kanaimba-Senai said, adding that it was part of broader efforts to promote gender equality and diversify the workforce in traditionally male dominated fields. Meanwhile, the two-day Pitso will be held under a theme: Mining Beyond Gender –Fostering Equality and Inclusion in the Mining and Energy Sectors. The Pitso will highlight opportunities and successful stories as well as avail an opportunity for successful women in mining to inspire others and demonstrate that women can excel in those roles. Ms Kanaimba-Senai said the Pitso would highlight the wide range of roles available in mining from technical and scientific positions to administrative and leadership roles. Giving an overview of WiMBO, Ms Kanaimba-Senai said the organisation encouraged women to start businesses with the mines. “We bring together women of diverse backgrounds, from businesses, and offer inspiration and empowerment,” she said, adding that they aimed to develop women capacity for accelerated growth and participation in mining so as to ensure their full potential and contribution to Botswana’s economic growth. She said Minister of Minerals and Energy, Honourable Lefoko Moahi, will officiate at the Pitso. ENDS