Empowering Women and Youth in Tanzania’s Artisanal Mining Sector

A national workshop on empowering women in artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) was held in Dodoma from 24–25 July 2025. The event was opened by Mr. Ally Samaje, Assistant Commissioner for Minerals and Mines Development, and marked the launch of a new national effort to support women and youth in Tanzania’s Development Minerals sector. A key moment was the release of the Baseline Study on ASM, which will guide future actions and policies.

The workshop brought together 63 participants from government, women’s mining associations (including Tanzania Women Miners Association, Tanzania Women in Mining & Mineral Industries and Women in Mining Association), Federation of Miners Associations of Tanzania, technical institutions, civil society, and miners from 13 regions.

Discussions focused on three priorities: promoting gender equity and stronger leadership roles for women; improving health and safety in mines through better regulation and training; and introducing practical solutions such as low-cost mechanisation tools and digital finance apps to support miners’ productivity and income.

Participants agreed on clear follow-up actions, including safer mining practices, better access to licensing and finance for women, and stronger collaboration between miners and policymakers. The workshop built on earlier training sessions held in Singida, Dodoma, Morogoro, and Tanga between May and July.