6 Apr 2024
As Angola continues to develop its mining sector, it is imperative to ensure that policies and practices prioritize the rights and welfare of vulnerable groups, including women and children. IWoMA remains committed to advocating for gender equality, sustainable development, and the eradication of child labor in Africa's mining industry.
[London, April 12, 2024] - The Initiative for Women Miners in Africa (IWoMA) calls on the Angolan government to prioritize the empowerment of artisanal women miners and the eradication of child labor in its policy dialogues concerning solid minerals development. As Angola advances its mining sector, it is crucial to ensure the inclusion and protection of vulnerable groups, particularly women and children.
Recent reports from the U.S. Department of Labor highlight the prevalence of child labor in Angola, particularly in the mining sector. IWoMA emphasizes the need for companies operating in the mining industry to strictly implement a "No Child Labor" policy and invest in corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects that promote access to education for children in mining communities.
According to Angolan law, the minimum age for employment is 14 years, with exceptions for certain light work at age 12. However, children between the ages of 14 and 16 are only permitted to engage in light work that does not interfere with their schooling or harm their health or development.
Dr Comfort articulated the vision of IWoMA, emphasizing the imperative of inclusive policies in Angola's mining sector. She underscored the organization's commitment to empowering artisanal women miners and safeguarding children from exploitation in mine sites, aligning with the broader goals of gender equality and sustainable development. Her passionate advocacy highlighted the urgent need for governmental and corporate action to prioritize the well-being and rights of vulnerable groups, ensuring a future where women and children thrive in Angola's mining communities.
"IWoMA urges the Angolan government to prioritize the protection and empowerment of artisanal women miners and the eradication of child labor in the mining sector," said Dr. Comfort Asokoro-Ogaji, Executive Director of IWoMA. "We call on companies operating in Angola's mining industry to uphold ethical labor practices and invest in initiatives that support the education and well-being of children in mining communities."
As Angola continues to develop its mining sector, it is imperative to ensure that policies and practices prioritize the rights and welfare of vulnerable groups, including women and children. IWoMA remains committed to advocating for gender equality, sustainable development, and the eradication of child labor in Africa's mining industry.
For further information, please visit iwoma.org