The Women in Mining Africa (WiM-Africa), has launched a ‘Voices of Children from the Pits’ program to help the vulnerable children in mining communities and take them out the hazardous sites.


WiM-Africa also implemented partners from Malawi, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, South Sudan, Mali, and South Africa, with other delegates joined from Angola, DRCongo, Sirea Leone, London and the United States of America.

Speaking during the launch in Abuja, the Executive Director of Women in Mining Africa (WiM-Africa), Dr. Comfort Asokoro-Ogaji, said that partners with others share their implementation plans and highlighted their track records in advocating for the rights and welfare of women and children.

She said: “The launch of the 'Voices of Children from the Pits' program marks a significant milestone in our mission to protect and empower the most vulnerable children in our mining communities.

“The program will not only remove children from hazardous mine sites but will also engage stakeholders in raising awareness and gathering critical data about the children affected.

“Our collective work with implementing partners across Africa is crucial in driving sustainable change and ensuring the well-being of women and children in the mining sector.”

Also speaking, the Program Coordinator at Richflood Foundation, Dr. Adeola Adewale Olajugbagbe, said, “We are excited to collaborate with WiM-Africa on the 'Voices of Children from the Pits' program here in Nigeria.

“This initiative is a vital step towards eradicating child labor in mines, fostering safe and supportive environments for our children, and engaging stakeholders in meaningful dialogue. No child should be found working at the mines.

“Our commitment to this cause is unwavering, and we look forward to seeing the positive changes this program will bring.”

In attendance at the strategic meeting were representatives from Women in Mining Africa, Richflood Foundation, and media organizations. Pictured from right to left: Mrs. Elizabeth Mbagho, Program Coordinator at Women in Mining Africa; Mr. Francis Kadiri; Dr. Comfort Asokoro-Ogaji, Executive Director at Women in Mining Africa (WiM-Africa); Dr. Adeola-Adewale Olajugbagbe, Program Coordinator at Richflood Foundation; and Mrs. Rita Babatunde, Gender Specialist at Richflood Foundation, in the Asokoro Office in Abuja.