n alignment with B2Gold’s commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), our Fekola operation in Mali has undertaken proactive measures to address gender disparities in the workplace.
Women in the Malian mining sector face a myriad of challenges, including pay gaps, limited maternity support, and societal prejudices that affect their professional environments.
To address these challenges, the Fekola Women’s Collective was established in 2022 with the mission of advocating for women’s issues within the workplace. Since its inception, the collective has made significant strides in promoting gender equality and empowering female employees. Key achievements to date include:
Training and Development
- Provision of English proficiency and leadership training for senior female employees to enhance their professional skills and opportunities.
- Provision of light vehicle driver’s licensing, computer literacy classes, supervisory training, and additional English proficiency training for junior female employees, fostering career advancement and skill development.
Maternal Health Support
- Implementation of the Supplementary Maternity Leave Policy in November 2022, providing female employees with essential support during pregnancy and childbirth.
- Organization of fundraising activities to assist female employees with critically ill children, including those afflicted with cancer, sickle cell disease, autism and heart conditions.
- Establishment of a dedicated laboratory at the Fadougou and Fekola clinics, equipped with bloodwork and ultrasound facilities, ensuring access to essential healthcare services for female employees and their families.
Fund Management Association
- establishment of transparent and accountable financial mechanisms to manage the collective’s finances, including funds generated from fundraising, sponsorships, and member contributions.
These initiatives underscore the Fekola Gold Mine’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment for all employees, irrespective of gender. By empowering women through training, health support and financial transparency, the Fekola Women’s Collective serves as a beacon of progress and equality within the mining industry in Mali.
