The Ziva Community Initiative is championing the involvement of women in smart climate agriculture and sustainable mining practices in Nasarawa State. During a recent media training in Lafia, the initiative’s Program Lead, Samuel James-Pam, stressed the vital role women play as community and family pillars, highlighting Ziva’s mission to amplify their voices.
Supported by the African Center for Energy Policy (ACEP), Ziva trains women miners and farmers to boost their livelihoods while protecting the environment. James-Pam urged journalists to help share these women’s stories, emphasising their critical role in the intervention. He also encouraged women to form cooperatives to access grants and support.
Professor Shekwonyadu Iyakwari, a geologist from the Federal University of Lafia, spoke on the increasing presence of women in the mining sector, an industry traditionally dominated by men. He noted Nasarawa State’s abundant mineral resources and the vast potential for women’s economic empowerment through mining. Prof. Iyakwari also pointed out that women’s involvement in mining fosters peace and stability due to their less confrontational approach to conflict. He called for government intervention, including police presence at mining sites, to ensure safety and boost productivity.
Development journalist Alqasim Suleiman of Premium Times urged journalists to highlight the challenges women face in agriculture and mining, such as lack of land ownership. He emphasised the need to advocate for policies that ensure women have equal access to land and opportunities in mining.
Project lead Patience Ogbode reported that the Ziva Community Initiative has already trained over 100 women in Nasarawa State, leading to smart agriculture practices, increased farm yields and improved income. These women are not only supporting their families but also contributing significantly to the local economy. Ziva continues its work, ensuring women’s voices are heard, their stories are told, and their contributions are recognized in both mining and agriculture.
