The introduction of this program marks a significant step forward in GGML’s commitment to gender equality and workplace inclusivity. Photo: Courtesy
By Adonis Byemelwa
Geita Gold Mining Limited (GGML) has committed to enhancing the participation and advancement of women in its workforce by providing them with opportunities to excel in leadership roles and ensuring a safe working environment free from gender-based violence.
The announcement was made on Thursday, September 12, 2024, in Dar es Salaam by GGML Senior Legal Advisor David Nzaligo during the launch of a new gender equality employment program.
The program, aimed at increasing the participation of women in the private sector and promoting gender equality, is implemented by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group dedicated to private sector growth, in collaboration with the Employers’ Association of Tanzania (ATE).
Nzaligo highlighted that while the mining industry has traditionally been male-dominated, GGML has instituted policies and procedures designed to support and empower women, creating a safer and more inclusive work environment. He pointed out that GGML participates in the Female Future Tanzania (FFT) program, which is managed by ATE, by sponsoring female employees to complete their studies through this program.
As well, GGML has established policies to support pregnant employees, providing special breastfeeding time and transportation services to ensure they can return home to nurse and then get back to work. “We also offer various training and workshops to ensure gender cooperation and inclusivity within the company. This has allowed women to engage in roles that were previously dominated by men,” Nzaligo explained.
The launch event featured remarks by Dr. Dorothy Gwajima, the Minister of Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups. Dr. Gwajima expressed her belief that the new program would accelerate efforts to involve more women in the workforce. She noted that women’s labor contributions are hampered by various challenges, including insufficient inclusion in the private sector.
According to the 2021 Tanzania Integrated Labor Force Survey, only 25% of women are formally employed in the private sector. Furthermore, data from the Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange reveals that only 19% of women hold leadership positions on corporate boards listed on the exchange. Dr. Gwajima emphasized that there is a significant need for improvement at the grassroots level to address these disparities.
“The government is eager to see this program boost efforts to empower women and achieve gender parity, as it will provide opportunities for companies to collectively learn how to overcome gender-related challenges in the workplace,” Dr. Gwajima said.
Maria Porter, IFC’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, provided further details about the program. She noted that the initiative prioritizes integrating women into the formal financial sector, which has successfully reduced the gender gap from 9% in 2017 to 3% in 2023.
Porter also revealed that 20 companies, including GGML, out of 65 registered participants, are involved in the program. This effort aligns with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s goals of advancing women’s contributions to national development.
The introduction of this program marks a significant step forward in GGML’s commitment to gender equality and workplace inclusivity. By addressing barriers and providing support for women, GGML is setting a precedent for other companies to follow and contributing to broader efforts to enhance gender equity in Tanzania’s private sector.