FirstBank sponsors Edo women in mining to to 2024 annual gold &Gemstone conference

 

FirstBank, the premier West African financial institution and financial inclusion service provider, has sponsored Edo Women in Mining to the Gold and Gemstone Conference for the second consecutive year.  The five-day event held from Tuesday, September 24th to Saturday, September 28th at the Civic Centre, and Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC).

The event was designed to promote women’s participation in the mining sector through masterclasses on bead work, metal work, jewellery making, faceting and gemstone identification. The sponsorship which reinforces FirstBank’s unwavering commitment to women’s economic empowerment, community development and gender inclusivity provides vital opportunities for women within the sector to contribute to economic growth, consequently helping to achieve goal 5 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

Commenting on the bank’s sponsorship, Folake Ani-Mumuney, Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communication FirstBank, stated, “At FirstBank, we recognize women’s critical role in responsible mining and invest in their capacity building, supporting their contributions to environmental sustainability, community growth, and economic prosperity. The mining sector presents unique prospects for growth, and we are committed to supporting women as they harness these sustainability opportunities.”

The conference brought together over 300 women from various African countries, including Zambia, South Africa, and beyond; and provided a unique opportunity for women in the mining sector to enhance skills through expert-led masterclasses, showcase innovative products and services at the exhibition, engage in thought-provoking discussions on industry trends and challenges, foster valuable connections with peers and industry leaders.

FirstBank remains steadfast in its mission to empower women, fostering financial independence and providing access to skill-building initiatives that pave the way for sustainable success in various industries.