Geita Gold Mining Limited (GGML) has emerged as a trailblazer in the mining industry, not only for its operational excellence but also for its unwavering commitment to empowering women. In a sector historically dominated by men, GGML has seized every opportunity to uplift women within its operations and the broader community, prioritizing initiatives that foster women’s development and gender equality.
Through its innovative programs and policies, GGML has established itself as a role model, demonstrating that empowering women is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic business advantage.
The mining industry has long been characterized by a significant gender gap. In Canada, a leading country in mining, for instance, women represent only 16% of the mining workforce, a statistic that underscores the global challenge of achieving gender parity in this sector. In Tanzania, GGML is making remarkable strides to change this narrative. As a subsidiary of AngloGold Ashanti—a global leader in gender equality with a female Group Chair and three women in key executive roles (Chief Financial Officer, Chief Legal Officer, and Chief People Officer), GGML mirrors this commitment. In Tanzania, women currently make up 13% of GGML’s workforce, a figure that reflects the company’s deep investment in gender diversity and its determination to create a more inclusive workplace.
At the heart of GGML’s efforts is its sponsorship of the Female Future Programme, a transformative initiative organized by the Association of Tanzania Employers (ATE). This program, which celebrates its 10th anniversary in February this year, 2025, has been instrumental in advancing gender equity in the workplace. Over the past eight years of collaboration with ATE, the Female Future Programme has increased the representation of women in senior managerial positions from 0% to 9%, a significant achievement in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
One of the program’s standout success stories is Janeth Luponelo, who made history as the first female Senior Manager in Geology & Exploration at GGML. Her journey from participant to leader exemplifies the program’s effectiveness in breaking barriers and enabling women to achieve their career aspirations. “The Female Future Programme gave me the tools, confidence, and network to excel in my field,” Luponelo shared. “It’s not just about personal growth; it’s about paving the way for other women to follow.”
GGML had the honor of sponsoring the 10-Year Anniversary of the Female Future Programme and the 7th Annual Leadership Conference (ALC), which was held in 2025 and hosted by the Association of Tanzania Employers (ATE).
Simon Shayo, Vice President of Sustainability & Corporate Affairs in Africa for AngloGold Ashanti, emphasized the importance of GGML’s initiatives. “We are proud to sponsor this landmark event, which aligns with our mission to empower women and girls in Tanzania,” he said. “The Female Future Programme has been instrumental in breaking barriers and creating opportunities for women to thrive in leadership. Through initiatives like this, we continue to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and beyond.”
Duran Archery, Managing Director of GGML, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the broader impact of the program. “By equipping women with essential leadership, boardroom competence, and executive management skills, the Female Future Programme is not just about individual growth—it is about transforming workplaces and ensuring that gender diversity becomes a business imperative rather than a mere aspiration,” he stated. Archery’s remarks underscore the growing recognition that fostering gender diversity drives innovation, improves organizational performance, and enhances decision-making.
GGML’s commitment to gender equity extends far beyond the Female Future Programme. The company has implemented a range of initiatives designed to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women. For instance, GGML’s internship program aims for a balanced gender split, with preference given to equally qualified female candidates. This approach ensures that young women have access to opportunities that can kickstart their careers in the mining industry.
Additionally, GGML has launched two major campaigns to address workplace challenges faced by women. The first campaign focuses on discouraging inappropriate behavior, while the second aims to raise awareness and eliminate sexual violence in the workplace. Employees found guilty of such conduct face immediate dismissal, reflecting GGML’s zero-tolerance policy and its commitment to creating a safe and respectful work environment.
The 7th Annual Leadership Conference, sponsored by GGML, brought together industry leaders, experts, and changemakers to explore strategies for advancing women’s rights, equality, and empowerment. The event featured panels, workshops, and networking opportunities designed to inspire collaboration and action among those dedicated to promoting gender equity. Attendees discussed topics such as leadership development, workplace inclusivity, and the role of men as allies in the fight for gender equality.
The mine’s efforts to empower women extend beyond the workplace. The company has introduced various sustainability initiatives aimed at enhancing community welfare and supporting women’s economic empowerment. Recognizing that empowering women contributes to the broader development of communities and economies, GGML has invested in programs that provide women with access to education, healthcare, and entrepreneurial opportunities.
One such initiative is GGML’s active participation in the Female Future Tanzania (FFT) program, which is coordinated by ATE. Through this program, GGML sponsors its female employees to participate in and graduate from this transformative initiative. Furthermore, GGML has instituted policies to support new mothers, including dedicated breastfeeding time and transportation services, ensuring that women can balance their professional and personal responsibilities.
As GGML continues to advocate for gender equality, it invites other stakeholders to join the movement toward a more inclusive and equitable workplace. This initiative goes beyond corporate responsibility; it represents a critical step toward a sustainable future where everyone can thrive. By leading through example, GGML sets a standard for the mining industry and beyond, demonstrating that gender equality is not only attainable but also advantageous for all.
GGML’s commitment to empowering women is a testament to the transformative power of intentional action. Through initiatives like the Female Future Programme, the company is breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and inspiring change. As the mine continues to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion, it is not only transforming its own workplace but also contributing to a brighter, more equitable future for Tanzania and the global mining industry. The journey toward gender equality is far from over, but with leaders like GGML at the helm, the path forward is clear: when women thrive, we all thrive.
Read More articles by Deus Bugwaya