Last week at the 3rd African Mining Forum, we took a reflective deep dive into the African Mining Vision (AMV)—16 years after its adoption by African Heads of State in 2009. It was a moment to take stock of progress, acknowledge persistent gaps, and, most importantly, ask: Where do we go from here?
I had the privilege of moderating a panel discussion on “Women in Mining – Opportunities and Challenges in AMV Implementation” alongside incredible leaders from the Association of Women in Mining in Africa who are shaping the future of women in mining across Africa. Our discussion reinforced a crucial point—while the AMV aims to promote broad-based, inclusive development, gender inclusion remains a work in progress.
Notable Observations:
🔹 Only four African countries have ratified the AMV. Why so few? For a vision meant to transform Africa’s mining sector into a force for sustainable development, this level of commitment is underwhelming.
🔹 The African Green Minerals Strategy: A Necessary First Step? I had reservations about the African Green Mineral Strategy, but I now see it as a starting point. That said, we must ensure that Africa defines its own strategic minerals—not just those for the global green transition but also those critical for Africa’s industrialization and development.
🔹 Gender? The struggle for gender equity in mining continues. Aluta Continua! While progress has been made, women in mining continue to face barriers in leadership, financing, and access to opportunities. The AMV’s vision of inclusivity must move beyond rhetoric to tangible action. But as we saw during the panel, change is happening, and we are pushing forward!
Beyond the discussions, this #AFMiningForum was special on a personal level:
✨ I proudly wore my Damara dress, representing my heritage at this important gathering.
✨ I reconnected with some of the brightest minds shaping Africa’s extractive industries—leaders, visionaries, and changemakers dedicated to sustainable mining.
✨ And perhaps the most memorable moment—joining fellow Namibians in witnessing the historic inauguration of Namibia’s first female President via live-streaming.
The African Mining Vision belongs to all of us. Its success depends on commitment, action, and accountability. We cannot afford another decade of good intentions without implementation. Governments, the private sector, and civil society must do more to move from policy to action.
A special kudos to Dr. Marit Y. Kitaw and the incredible #AMDC team for the incredible work they are doing in driving the AMV forward. Their efforts are commendable, and they need our collective support to ensure Africa’s mineral resources truly benefit its people.
I leave this forum with renewed determination—to keep pushing for sustainability, inclusion, and accountability in Africa’s mining sector. Who’s with me?
#AfricanMiningVision #AFMiningForum African Minerals Development Centre
#SustainableMining #MiningForDevelopment Ingridt Namases
翻译：