FEMNET at the Alternative Mining Indaba 2025: Championing Gender Justice in Africa’s Extractive Sector
Annually, communities, activists and advocates gather at the Alternative Mining Indaba (AMI) to discuss, share experiences and demand justice, accountability and equity in the extractives sector-particularly mining. The 16th of its kind, AMI 2025 brought together over 300 diverse participants who together explored the theme “Energy transition for who? The critical question of our times!” As part of this pivotal convening, FEMNET was honoured to contribute to amplifying the voices of African women and communities often marginalised in these conversations.
The opening ceremony set a powerful tone, with Rev. Suzanne Matale delivering a theological reflection. Drawing attention to a famous quote, “colonialism is a chameleon; it does not go away but only changes colour,” she urged participants to confront the persistent structural injustices in resource extraction. Her words resonated deeply, setting the stage for convening to challenge systemic injustices in the extractives sector.
The panel discussions highlighted key themes, including the urgent need for a people-centred energy transition. “Energy transition must prioritise people, not just corporations,” emphasised one speaker. Participants agreed that communities affected by mining must have a stronger voice in policy processes. Faith-based organisations were also recognised as crucial allies in advocating for mining justice. The discussions underscored the importance of steadfast ideological positioning, embracing technology, and engaging in social dialogues to influence policies and achieve equity. Advocate Thembeka Ngcukaitobi delivered a compelling address, challenging attendees to confront systemic failures in the extractive industry. He highlighted how Africans have been stripped not only of their mineral rights but also their rights to land. “People are well-educated but asset-poor,” he noted, pointing out that growing economic inequality and neglected environmental regulations have led to displacement and loss of livelihoods. His message was clear: self-reliance is essential to reclaiming Africa’s resources for its people.
During the idea lab hosted by FEMNET, the focus directed towards the disproportionate impact of extractive industries on African women living and working in and around Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) communities. “We must create systems that ensure women are not just bystanders but key players in the ASM sector,” Dr Armany Asfour highlighted. Despite not being a homogenous group, women remain severely underrepresented, comprising only 18-27% of the workforce in ASM. They often face lower pay, limited access to technology, and exclusion from land ownership. Many also endure gender-based violence and job losses due to the industry’s structural inequalities. Ms. Hannah Wang’ombe stressed that addressing these challenges requires deliberate policies, budget allocations, and investments in young women’s participation in tech and mining-related fields. Ms. Edah Chimya further examined gender norms and their impact on women’s roles in the ASM sector. The discussion extended to gender mainstreaming in ASM value chain, emphasising the power of knowledge and reinforcing the importance of African-led research. One of the key takeaways was that owning our data and statistics is essential in determining what our resources are worth. This is key to ensuring that Africa is not shortchanged in global trade and energy transition deals.
AMI 2025 was crowned by a march. This significant moment was key to taking the voices of communities beyond the conference hall and delivering the AMI Communique to decision-makers. “Mining justice cannot wait—policies must reflect the needs of the people,” was the rallying cry as participants walked in solidarity for change. As an avid champion for women’s economic justice, FEMNET remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for gender-transformative policies in the extractive sector. The conversations in AMI reinforced that true progress demands inclusivity, accountability, and a fundamental shift in power dynamics. The fight for mining justice continues, and FEMNET will keep pushing for a future where African women and communities are at the Centre of the continent’s resource governance. #AMI2025 #Femonomics
