CBU-ACESM partners with Mopani Copper Mines to empower women in mining and the Development of the Supplier Development Programme.
On 29th & 30th March 2023, Mopani Copper Mines held the Women in Mining Forum and Exhibition at the Garden Hotel in Kitwe, and the Copperbelt University Africa Center of Excellent for Sustainable Mining was honoured to be a partner in organizing this important event. The Acting Vice-Chancellor of Copperbelt University, Professor Paul Chisale, delivered a speech highlighting the significance of promoting gender equality and empowering women in the mining sector.
The Women in Mining Forum and Exhibition showcased the contributions of women in the mining sector and created a platform for dialogue and networking. The Copperbelt University African Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Mining recognizes the crucial role of women in the mining sector and is committed to promoting sustainable mining practices that contribute to the social, economic, and environmental well-being of the communities where mining operations occur.
During the event, Mopani Copper Mines announced a Supplier Development Programme to empower local suppliers, including women-owned businesses, and the Copperbelt University Africa Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Mining pledged to work closely with Mopani Copper Mines to develop and implement this initiative. The program seeks to create opportunities for local suppliers to access markets and contribute to the value chain of the mining industry, with a focus on increasing the participation of women-owned businesses in the mining industry.
"We are excited to work closely with Mopani Copper Mines to develop a Supplier Development Programme to empower local suppliers, including women-owned businesses," said Professor Chisale. "This initiative aligns with our mission of promoting sustainable mining practices that contribute to the economic development of local communities. We are confident that this program will allow women to participate in the mining sector and contribute to the country's economic development."
The Supplier Development Programme will provide technical support, training, and access to Mopani supply requirements for local suppliers, with a goal of creating an enabling environment for the growth and development of local suppliers. This program will positively impact the lives of many people in the local communities and contribute to the development of the mining industry. The Copperbelt University is proud to be part of this initiative and looks forward to working with its partners to empower women in mining and promote sustainable development.
Ms Leah Mate 
.jpeg)
