Women Urged to Professionalize and Strategize Mining Ventures
Women in Zimbabwe’s mining sector have been encouraged to approach their operations as formal businesses, ensuring professional management of their mining sites to foster sustainable growth in the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector. This approach emphasizes enhancing business acumen and technical skills, reports Mining Zimbabwe.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
Speaking at the Zimbabwe Association of Women in Mining Associations (ZAWIMA) Women in Extractives and Development symposium, ZAWIMA Chairperson Kundai Chikonzo highlighted the importance of female miners adopting structured, professional approaches to mining.
She urged participants to implement rigorous operational systems that would ensure smooth day-to-day functioning and attract potential investors and financiers.
Chikonzo emphasized the critical role of proper record-keeping and budget management as key pillars in running a successful mining venture. She pointed out that many women in the mining sector have historically viewed mining as a side activity rather than a full-fledged business, which has limited the potential for growth and development.
“Mining should not be seen as a side hustle. It is a business like any other and requires serious attention. We need to set up offices at our sites to manage operations effectively. Paperwork is essential. Financiers and investors want to see detailed records of your operations, including production volumes, costs, and revenue streams. Without proper records, we risk missing opportunities for growth and financing,” Chikonzo said.
To transition into fully-fledged business entities, Chikonzo stressed the need for systems that monitor both technical and financial performance. She recommended that women establish a clear hierarchy and employ trustworthy personnel capable of maintaining the integrity of the mining operation.
“Women should have systems in place to track all activities at the mine site. This includes understanding machinery usage, fuel consumption, and other operational costs, such as explosives and drilling. Without proper systems, you won’t know how much is being spent or wasted, which can lead to losses and inefficiency,” Chikonzo said.
Additionally, Chikonzo highlighted the importance of understanding the geological nature of mining claims. She explained that familiarity with a mine’s geology is crucial for effective extraction planning and cost management, especially in estimating the use of explosives and other consumables. Female miners, she said, need to move beyond surface-level knowledge and develop an in-depth technical understanding.
“Knowing your geology is key. You need to thoroughly understand the mineral composition and rock formations at your site. This will help you estimate the amount of drilling and explosives required, as well as fuel and maintenance costs for your machinery,” she explained.
The ZAWIMA Chairperson concluded by stressing the need for women miners to adopt sustainable practices. As the global and local focus shifts toward environmental responsibility in mining, women in Zimbabwe’s mining sector have an opportunity to lead by example in implementing environmentally friendly and ethical practices. This, she said, will further enhance their credibility in the industry and open doors to international partnerships.
By professionalizing their operations and treating mining as a serious business, women miners can significantly contribute to the economic development of Zimbabwe’s ASM sector. Through improved operational systems, budgeting, and geological understanding, they can ensure long-term sustainability and profitability for their ventures.