By ABAH ADAH, Abuja
Women in Mining Africa, WiM-Africa, has announced the launch of its “Voices of Children from the Pits” programme, according to a statement issued Thursday.
Event marking the official launch took place on June 14, 2024, with the attendance of WiM-Africa implementing partners from Malawi, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, South Sudan, Mali, and South Africa, while other delegates joined from Angola, DRCongo, Sirea Leone, London and the United States of America.
During the event, partners shared their implementation plans and highlighted their track records in advocating for the rights and welfare of women and children.
Wim-Africa committed to advocating for gender equality in the mining sector and removing children from hazardous mine sites across Africa, a commitment to which The “Voices of Children from the Pits” programme is a testament.
The well-attended launch event was followed by a strategic meeting in Abuja on June 25, 2024, where WiM-Africa met with its Implementing Partner in Nigeria, Richflood Foundation, and media representatives to discuss the take-off of the “Voices of Children from the Pits” programme in Nigeria, according to the statement.
In her address, the executive director of WiM-Africa, Dr Comfort Asokoro-Ogaji, said, “The launch of the ‘Voices of Children from the Pits’ programme marks a significant milestone in our mission to protect and empower the most vulnerable children in our mining communities.
“This programme will not only remove children from hazardous mine sites but will also engage stakeholders in raising awareness and gathering critical data about the children affected.
“Our collective work with implementing partners across Africa is crucial in driving sustainable change and ensuring the well-being of women and children in the mining sector.”
Speaking in the same vein, the programme coordinator at Richflood Foundation Nigeria, Dr Adeola Adewale Olajugbagbe, said, “We are excited to collaborate with WiM-Africa on the ‘Voices of Children from the Pits’ programme here in Nigeria.
This initiative is a vital step towards eradicating child labor in mines, fostering safe and supportive environments for our children, and engaging stakeholders in meaningful dialogue. No child should be found working at the mines.”
According to her, through comprehensive data gathering about the children and also through increased awareness, the collaboration aims to create lasting impacts on the lives of children who are affected by mining activities.
“Our commitment to this cause is unwavering, and we look forward to seeing the positive changes this program will bring,” she said.
In attendance at the strategic meeting were representatives from Women in Mining Africa, Richflood Foundation, and media organisations.
