Women urged to push for Better Labour Conditions in Extractive Industry
By Ruth Chayinda & Victoria Sichaliso
Zambia’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, MACENJE #MAZOKA, has called on women in the extractive industry to continue advocating for fair labour conditions and greater opportunities in the sector.
Ms. MAZOKA was speaking at the close of the Women in Extractive Industry, Trade, and Value Addition Association of Zambia’s weeklong gemstone exhibition at #Zambia House in London.
She emphasized the importance of women taking leadership roles in shaping the country’s resource industry.
Ms. MAZOKA described the exhibition as a powerful demonstration of the government’s commitment to empowering Zambians, particularly women, through ethical and transparent resource management.
She said the showcased gemstones, ethically sourced from Zambia, highlighted the efforts of miners, artisans, and industry players dedicated to responsible and fair supply chain practices.
Ms. MAZOKA, who proudly adorned #jewelry purchased from the exhibition, said each piece represented not just beauty but also a story of sustainability, environmental stewardship, and economic empowerment.
She underscored the economic significance of women’s participation in value addition, noting that revenues earned tend to stay within the country and contribute to national development.
Meanwhile, Association Chairperson PAULINE MUNDIA noted that the exhibition had provided crucial market insights.
She revealed that emeralds are the most sought-after gemstones in London and that there is growing interest in ethically sourced and highly traceable stones.
Mrs. MUNDIA stated that all exhibited gemstones were untreated, authentic, and certified by the Zambian government, reinforcing Zambia’s reputation as a reliable source of high-quality precious stones.
The exhibition in London served as a platform for women in the extractive industry to showcase their craftsmanship, expand market reach, and strengthen partnerships, furthering the cause for ethical trade and fair labour conditions in Zambia’s extractive sector.
This is according to a statement issued to ZNBC news by First Secretary – Press at Zambia’s High Commission in London.
