Africa’s extractive sector remains predominantly male-dominated, with women often relegated to non-management roles, despite evidence showing that gender diversity in senior management enhances outcomes. Women and marginalized groups, including persons with disabilities, face systemic exclusion from technical and leadership positions, often confined to low-wage or precarious jobs.
Achieving gender balance and social inclusion in the sector requires deliberate and sustained action. Frameworks like the African Union’s Agenda 2063, the Africa Mining Vision, and Sustainable Development Goal 5 advocate for equitable representation and empowerment, yet these aspirations remain unrealized in many parts of the continent.
CEDA partners with governments, women-focused organizations, and extractive companies to promote gender mainstreaming and social inclusion. Through targeted policies and initiatives, CEDA works to ensure women and marginalized groups can fully participate and thrive in Africa’s extractive industries, creating a more equitable and resilient sector.
