Creating a mining industry that works for the women of tomorrow
Does the statement “Mining is a male-dominated industry” still hold true?
Statistically, yes. Women make up only 15 to 19% of the global mining workforce, positioning the sector among the most underrepresented industries for women worldwide. Yet numbers alone do not tell the full story. The mining industry is evolving, and women are at the heart of that transformation.
To understand how far we have come, it helps to look back. Women have always been part of mining. For centuries, they contributed both on the surface and underground, long before formal records fully captured their participation. In some mining communities, female representation was once higher than what we see today. So, what changed?
Over time, shifting social norms and new laws reshaped the sector. The Mines and Collieries Act 1842, introduced in the United Kingdom, prohibited women and children from working underground. While the intention was to protect women from dangerous working conditions, the long-term impact was significant. Mining gradually became viewed as a “man’s world”, and generations of women were excluded from opportunities in the sector. It was only in 1989, nearly 150 years later, that women were legally permitted to return underground.
New narrative
Today, the narrative is different. Globally, women are stepping into roles that were once considered out of reach, from operating heavy machinery to working as artisans, engineers and executives. Although representation remains low, progress is visible. Women are not only participating, but they are also leading, innovating and influencing how the industry evolves.
As we mark 115 years of International Women’s Day, it is important to reflect on the generations of women who paved the way, challenging barriers and advocating for equal opportunity in spaces where they were once excluded. Their resilience created pathways that many of us walk today. At the same time, meaningful progress has also been accelerated by male allies, leaders and colleagues who recognise the value women bring - not as tokens, but as capable professionals, innovators and changemakers.
A clear example of the progress of women can be seen here in Namibia. As one of the largest contributors to national GDP, mining remains a cornerstone of the Namibian economy and a major source of employment. It is encouraging to see more young women enrolling in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields, more Namibian women taking up technical roles, and an increasing presence of women in boardrooms and strategic decision-making spaces. Progress in Namibia has been strengthened by organisations such as Women in Mining Association of Namibia (WiMAN), along with colleagues and leaders who support inclusion, provide mentorship, and help create environments where women can truly thrive.
Women shaping the sector
Namibia is home to remarkable women who continue to shape the mining sector.
Inge Zaamwani, former CEO of Namdeb, helped transform the diamond industry and now leads the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform. Maenge Shipiki‑Kali rose from metallurgist to Debmarine Namibia’s first female vessel manager and now serves as its Chief Operating Officer. Liezl Davies became the first woman General Manager of Operations at Rössing Uranium and now oversees Human Capital, Safety and Sustainability. Zenzi Awases began her career as a geologist and now serves as President of Association of Women in Mining in Africa (AWIMA) and WiMAN, driving gender inclusion across Africa. Wollen Nell advanced from metallurgist to leading Namdeb’s Safety, Health and Operational Risk department.
These women represent only a few examples of Namibian professionals whose expertise, resilience and leadership continue to transform the mining sector.
Ongoing journey
As we celebrate progress, we must acknowledge that the journey is not yet complete. Representation in numbers shows that barriers still exist. Creating an industry that works for all requires continued commitment — not only from women, but from organisations, policymakers and allies who understand that inclusion strengthens performance and sustainability.
In Namibia and across the globe, the focus should be on investing in the next generation, encouraging girls to pursue STEM, and showing them that mining is not a distant or unattainable career, but one where they belong.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day under the theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls”, let it serve as a reminder that progress requires intention. The challenge for all of us — in our workplaces, in our communities and at home — is to ensure that rights are upheld in practice, that justice is reflected in everyday decisions, and that action is continuous and intentional.
The landscape of mining is changing globally. Women are not simply part of the workforce, but central to its growth and innovation. It is an exciting journey to witness and to be part of. Namibia has made meaningful strides, and it is our responsibility to build on that foundation. By continuing to act together, the mining industry can become known for those who were empowered, rather than those who were left behind.
*Emmarencia Shanglee is Namdeb’s Project Manager – Strategic Projects.
