SMDF launches initiative to empower 1,000 women in gemstone mining, jewelry-making

The Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF) has launched a new initiative aimed at empowering 1,000 Nigerian women through training in gemstone mining and jewelry-making.

The programme, which kicked off with a training session in Lagos, aims to harness the potential of Nigeria’s rich gemstone resources while boosting economic opportunities for women in the sector.

During the event, Hajia Fatima Shinkafi, Executive Secretary of SMDF, stressed the importance of economic diversification under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

She highlighted the nation’s need to reduce its reliance on crude oil by tapping into solid minerals and praised Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals, for his support in advancing women’s empowerment within the mining industry.

According to Shinkafi, the programme is designed not only to teach jewelry-making but also to equip participants with entrepreneurial skills to establish their businesses.

Shinkafi explained that Nigeria possesses abundant precious stones that are largely untapped. “This training will enable women to create beautiful jewelry and build thriving businesses,” she said, adding that participants would be provided with loans and grants to help them launch successful enterprises.

Engr. Janet Adeyemi, President of Nigeria Women in Mining, expressed her gratitude for SMDF’s continued support, noting that this is the third edition of the programme.

She shared that many women have already been empowered through previous editions, allowing them to engage in mining and jewelry-making at a global level. Adeyemi encouraged ongoing collaboration to ensure women’s inclusion in the mining sector.

Ambassador Folakemi Akinleye, Nigeria’s former ambassador to the Philippines and Cambodia, applauded the initiative for empowering rural women and expanding opportunities in the mining sector.

Drawing on her experience in the Philippines, Akinleye noted that women there are fully engaged in mining and contribute significantly to the country’s economic growth.

Mrs. Tope Omage, a former director at the Central Bank of Nigeria, described SMDF’s efforts as a milestone in improving the livelihoods of women and fostering job creation in Nigeria. She added that the initiative would greatly improve women’s skills and create new economic opportunities.

Geologist Dr. Tersoo Aga also spoke at the event, emphasizing Nigeria’s vast mineral wealth.

He noted that the country is home to over 500 different types of gemstones, making this training programme a key opportunity for women to tap into this valuable resource.

Several participants from Lagos and Zamfara expressed optimism about the opportunities this training will offer. They praised SMDF and Women in Mining for creating a sustainable and well-supervised pathway for women to explore Nigeria’s mineral resources and start their own businesses.

This initiative is seen as a significant step in Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its economy and break barriers for women in the mining sector.

SMDF’s long-term vision includes continued support, providing access to markets, and fostering the growth of cooperatives and small businesses led by women.