welcome to
Women on Mining and Extractives
(WoME)
Our Vision
A sustainable platform created and promoting inclusion and social justice for traditionally marginalized groups including women and young people in the equitable distribution of natural resources especially within the mining communities in the bid to achieve their overall individual and community development.
Our Mission
We are a National Women led advocacy and Human Right Organization engaging with Government institutions including local councils and related line ministries, mining companies, traditional and religious leaders in a bid to promote equitable distribution of national resources for the benefit of all especially traditionally marginalized groups including women and young people.
OUR WORK
Advocacy
WoME actively engages in policy advocacy, pushing for the inclusion of women’s perspectives and needs within the mining sector. For instance, the organization spearheaded discussions advocating for amendments to the Mines and Minerals Act to better represent and favor women’s interests. Additionally, WoME hosts radio and TV discussions, shedding light on women’s rights and the challenges they face in mining communities, amplifying their voices to broader audiences and celebrated the first International Women’s day in Mining on the 15th June 2023 in Sierra Leone.
Trainings and Empowerment
The organization conducts targeted training programs empowering women and femal miners with essential skills and knowledge. These programs encompass leadership development workshops, financial literacy training, and sessions on legal rights. For instance, WoME provides leadership workshops, climate change issues, entrepreneurship and communications skills; nurturing women’s abilities to take on decision-making roles within their communities.
Alternative livelihood support
WoME implements projects that uplift women’s economic independence. For instance, the organization builds Animal Husbandries for communities and facilitates microfinance initiatives and supports women in establishing small-scale businesses. In Tongo, Kenema, WoME donated a rice mille machine and initiated a rice farming project, where harvested produce is divided: half sold for income shared among the women, and the other half replanted to sustain the cycle.
Research and Documentaries
WoME actively engages in both research projects and impactful documentaries, shedding light on the lived experiences of women in Sierra Leone’s mining communities. For example, the organization conducted a seminal study titled “Transparency and Accountability on Mining Revenues: Women’s Participation and Benefits within Sierra Leone’s Mining Communities” and documentary titled “Amplifying Women Voices in Mining Communities,” depicting the challenges faced by women in districts like Kono and Bothe due to mining activities, subsequently empowering them to advocate for fairer shares in mining royalties.
Environmental & Climate Change
WoME actively engages in issues around climate change and its effects of the lives of especially women in the country. For example in September 2023, WoME hosted the “The Climate Change Assembly” which was a two-day conference on Women climate Justices Assembly with the theme “Building Gender Equality and Climate Resilience in Sierra Leone”. It gathered women COSs, farmers, CBOs, Students and miners. This conference was to aimed towards deepening the understanding of the women on climate change related issues and examine our action that is contributing to climate change.
Psychosocial Counseling
WoME’s work also encompasses providing psychosocial counseling and therapeutic interventions tailored for women and female artisanal mining who were survivors of sexual abuse within these mining communities. Furthermore, the projects strategically aimed to raise awareness, emphasizing the importance of eradicating discrimination against victims while advocating for the prosecution of perpetrators. Through these endeavors, WoME aimed not only to provide vital counseling services but also to challenge societal norms, encourage justice, and foster a culture of solidarity and support for survivors of sexual violence in mining communities.
donations
Support WoME’s transformative initiatives within Sierra Leone’s mining communities through your generous donations. Join us in making a difference and uplifting women in mining communities through your support.
Volunteer
Join us in our mission by volunteering your time and expertise to support our programs and initiatives. Whether through mentorship, event coordination, or professional skills, your involvement can make a meaningful difference.
Spread Awareness
Share our cause on social platforms, initiate conversations, and contribute to raising awareness about the adversities confronted by women in mining communities. Your engagement helps spotlight these challenges and promotes dialogue for positive change.
Contribute to a campaign
Explore opportunities for collaboration, whether you represent a company, NGO, or government agency, to collectively address the unique needs of women in the mining communities.
Be an advocate for policy changes that promote gender equality and financial inclusion in the mining industry.
Your contribution, big or small, plays a vital role in creating a more supportive and equitable environment for women in mining. Join us in making a meaningful difference.