Voices from Tanzania – Exploring cultural norms limiting women’s participation in artisanal and small-scale gold mining activities in Mwakitolyo, Shinyanga region
October 9, 2025Women have historically contributed to mining activities across the world, yet their roles have often been overlooked or undervalued. Also in Tanzania’s artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) sector, women face systemic barriers rooted in cultural norms, legal frameworks, and socio-economic structures. In this study, Thubutu Africa Initiatives (TAI) explores the cultural and social factors
Voices from Tanzania – Her place in the mine: Women’s struggles and aspirations in the gemstone sector of Kalalani, Tanga
September 30, 2025Tanzania is a key source of coloured gemstones, including tsavorite, rubies, and sapphires. The sector, driven largely by artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM), contributes to the national economy but women—who make up 25–30% of the workforce—are often confined to insecure, low-paying roles and see little of its benefits. This report, carried out by HakiMadini with methodological and editorial su
Voices from Tanzania – Well-being and economic mobility of women in the Mirerani Tanzanite mining area, Manyara
September 23, 2025Tanzanite, a rare and valuable gemstone, holds significant economic potential for Tanzania. Yet, the country’s mining sector is marked by persistent socio-economic inequalities, particularly affecting women. In Mirerani – the only place on earth where tanzanite is found – women face systematic barriers to decent work, equipment, training and leadership positions. These challenges – compounded by e
