Gender equity crucial in extractive sector

Patience Masua - In the ever-evolving landscape of industry and progress, the importance of gender equity cannot be overstated.

Nowhere is this more evident than in traditionally male-dominated sectors such as the oil, gas and mineral resource industries. These industries have long been characterised by a lack of gender diversity, but the winds of change are finally beginning to blow, ushering in a new era of inclusion and equality.

This transformation is particularly significant for Namibia as we embark on a ground-breaking journey into sustainable oil discoveries.

Namibia's Vision 2030 hinges not only on economic growth, but also on the sustainable inclusion of women across all sectors, ensuring that their voices and contributions play a pivotal role in shaping our nation's prosperous and equitable future.

For decades, the mineral resource industries have been emblematic of gender imbalance.

The roots of this disparity are deeply entrenched in historical norms and societal perceptions of patriarchy. With manual labour and technical roles traditionally associated with men, women found themselves relegated to supporting roles or completely excluded from these sectors.

The scarcity of women's representation was not just an oversight but a reflection of societal prejudices that have persisted for generations and continue to persist even now.



Strategic imperative



The significance of addressing gender equity in these industries goes beyond merely rectifying a historical wrong.

A diverse and inclusive workforce brings a plethora of perspectives to the table.

The extractive sectors are complex and multifaceted, requiring innovative solutions to tackle challenges ranging from environmental sustainability to technological advancement.

Diverse teams have been proven to outperform homogenous ones in terms of creativity and problem-solving. Thus, gender equity becomes a strategic imperative, contributing to the long-term success and resilience of these industries.



Challenges



Despite the shifting tides, numerous challenges still obstruct the path to gender equity.

Gender stereotypes persist, painting technical roles as inherently masculine and reinforcing the notion that women are unsuited for these positions.

The lack of female role models further exacerbates the issue, as young women are discouraged from pursuing careers in these fields due to a lack of visible representation.

Additionally, workplace culture, often built around long hours and rigid structures, can pose challenges for individuals, particularly women seeking work-life balance.



Dismantling barriers



However, efforts to dismantle these barriers are gaining momentum.

Both within the industry and through external collaborations, initiatives are being launched to promote gender equity.

Institutions are implementing mentorship programmes to provide guidance and support for women seeking to advance in their careers. Diversity and inclusion training sessions are helping to reshape organisational cultures and debunk harmful stereotypes.

Flexibility in work arrangements, including remote work and flexible hours, is being embraced to accommodate the diverse needs of employees.

In Namibia, the journey towards gender equity gains particular relevance as the nation's recent oil discoveries position it on the cusp of a significant economic and energy transformation.

As Namibia taps into its oil resources, it must simultaneously tap into the full potential of its workforce, irrespective of gender, to ensure the sustainability and inclusivity of this new chapter.



Benefits



Promoting gender equity is not only a moral obligation, but also a strategic move for companies operating in these sectors. Research consistently shows that diverse teams drive innovation and outperform competitors.

With the ever-evolving challenges posed by environmental concerns, resource management and societal demands, the industry needs fresh perspectives to navigate an uncertain future.

Furthermore, fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment enhances employee satisfaction, leading to increased retention and ultimately reducing the costs associated with turnover.

In the context of Namibia's recent oil discoveries, gender equity aligns with the nation's broader goals of sustainable development.

By involving women at every level of decision-making and implementation, Namibia can ensure that its oil resources contribute to the well-being of all its citizens, regardless of gender.

The benefits will not only be economic but also social, as the inclusion of diverse voices enriches policy discussions and enhances the country's long-term viability.



Effective



Several practises have proven effective in advancing gender equity.

Mentorship and scholarship programmes can provide women with the guidance and opportunities needed to ascend the industry ladder.

Training programmes that address unconscious bias and foster a more inclusive culture can transform workplaces from within.

Embracing flexibility in work arrangements can also allow individuals to balance their personal and professional responsibilities effectively.



Recommendations



Firstly, supporting industry-specific research initiatives that gather data on gender diversity and representation within the industry is important, as it tracks progress, identifies areas for improvement, and helps make informed decisions.

Collaboration between educational institutions, key industry stakeholders and government is also critical to incentivising young women to study fields in extractive industries.

Mentorship, workshops and scholarships help women overcome gender-based career stereotypes and eventually become industry leaders.

In advocating for more women in leadership roles in companies, industries and governments, we empower women and show the industry's commitment to gender equity. This means having more women in leadership positions within oil and gas companies, mineral resource organisations and relevant government bodies.



Powerful message



It sends a powerful message that women have a seat at the decision-making table and gives hope for young women with aspirations of becoming industry leaders in the sector.

Pairing experienced professionals with emerging female talent through mentorship also allows for the constant transfer of knowledge, both in soft and hard skills.

And, of course, government regulations in this new booming industry of oil discoveries and green hydrogen should encourage and mandate a more balanced gender participation structure at all levels.



Conclusion

The momentum towards gender equity in the oil and gas and mineral resources industries is promising.

As more companies recognise the benefits of a diverse workforce, they will likely invest in creating more inclusive workplaces. Collaborative efforts between industry players, the government and international organisations will continue to drive change.

While challenges remain, the transformation is well underway, and the trajectory is unmistakably positive.

As Namibia stands at the threshold of harnessing its recent oil discoveries, the journey towards gender equity in the extractive industries becomes a beacon of hope and progress.

By breaking down traditional barriers and promoting inclusivity, these sectors and Namibia's sustainable ambitions can tap into a vast pool of talent and creativity that has long been untapped.

As companies embrace diversity, innovation will flourish, ensuring a brighter and more sustainable future for these industries, Namibia, and the world at large.

Through ongoing efforts, we can realise the vision of a more equitable, resilient, and prosperous industry that propels Namibia's sustainable development journey forward.

* Patience Masua is a member of the National Assembly of Namibia. She holds an LLB and is an LLM International Trade Law (Candidate).