Women Challenge Patriarchy, Claim Power in Zimbabwe’s Informal Gold Mines
In the informal gold mining sector in Zimbabwe, women face cultural constraints but engraved with roles that integrate entrepreneurship, spirituality and survival. Despite being excluded from underground mining, Mazovi’s women use spiritual practices to gain influence, creating shrines where miners seek guidance visit. As many miners turn to mysterious practices, women provide ritual services to ensure success, while others perform sexual work to support their families. These women challenge social norms, change their role in traditional male-dominated spaces and reshape power dynamics in Zimbabwe’s mining economy. Their stories reveal resilience and adaptability in adversity.
source: dialogue
