Published: 19 July 2017

Zimbabwe's premier mining exhibition, Mine Entra, has begun in Bulawayo, with a number of issues affecting the industry coming under the spotlight.

The mining exhibition began with a Women in Mining Breakfast Meeting where the role of women in mining is under discussion.

In her address, Chamber of Mines first vice president Mrs Elizabeth Nerwande warned women against using their sexuality in penetrating the male-dominated field.

She said women should adjust to technological advancement if they are to make a difference in the mining sector.

The Deputy Minister of Women Affairs, Gender and Community Development Abigail Damasane urged women to be brave enough to face this men-dominated field which is capital intensive field and women remain disadvantaged.

Damasane called for the relaxation of red tape for women to be part of the mining sector, revealing that only 15 percent of women make up the artisanal miners.

She said women are the most vulnerable group at illegal mining camps as they end up being abused.

"Let's put something in place to avoid women abuse in such places," she said.

Damasane called for a 50-50 representation in boards and institutions to ensure equal opportunities and says the proposed women's bank must have no stringent conditions.

The mining exhibition which ends this Friday is running under the theme: ‘Exploring Linkages In Mining Value Chain.'
- zbc

You might also want to read this

• Decriminalise gold possession: Miners
• Zimbabwe starts repossessing idle mines
• Illegal mining threatens Blanket Mine operations
• Mine, farm workers least paid: Zela
• Miners urge Fidelity to review gold price
• Mine to lose equipment
• Miners say 'use it or lose it' concept spot on
• Wrangle over Zimbabwe diamond mine continues
• Mine robbery gang members denied bail
• Miners object EPOs introduction