Women involved in Ghana’s artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector have been urged to organise and advocate collectively for stronger representation in mining governance and policy decisions that directly affect their livelihoods.
The call was made during a capacity-building workshop organised by the Network for Women’s Rights in Ghana (NETRIGHT), in collaboration with Third World Network Africa and the Global Fund for Women. The event brought together participants from five mining communities in the Obuasi Municipality.
Speaking at the workshop, Ms. Lebenam Gifty Amekuedi, NETRIGHT’s Programme Officer, noted that although women constitute nearly 30 percent of the small-scale mining workforce, they continue to face systemic exclusion from critical decision-making processes in the sector.
“Women’s contributions to the mining economy are significant, yet their voices remain largely unheard when it comes to issues of policy, regulation, and resettlement,” she said. “We need to challenge the entrenched norms that define women’s roles narrowly and undervalue their capacity to lead.”
The workshop, according to Ms. Amekuedi, forms part of efforts to deepen awareness of mining laws, resettlement rights, and gender-responsive governance frameworks. It also sought to strengthen the ability of women miners to engage policymakers and advocate for equitable practices.
Mr. Richard Ellimah, a Natural Resource Governance Analyst and resource person at the event, encouraged the women to form strong associations to amplify their concerns. “When women come together, their collective voice carries greater weight in influencing reforms,” he advised.
Participants shared personal stories of challenges such as limited access to mining licences, lack of financing, unsafe working conditions, and gender-based discrimination. Many expressed optimism that the knowledge gained would help them better navigate the regulatory environment and demand accountability from authorities.
The session concluded with a renewed commitment by NETRIGHT and its partners to continue supporting advocacy for inclusive and gender-sensitive reforms within Ghana’s small-scale mining sector.
