Wednesday 11 June 2014

Taking care of lives in Artisanal mining- Beatrice Story




Beatrice comes from Dodoma, a capital town of Tanzania. She migrated to Sambaru in Singida two years ago to provide services to miners. Her business is located four kilometers from the village center, where there is no water, power, sanitation, hospital or school. She left her two children in the village with her children and she sends money home



 Beatrice in her room

The business area


The bar







Beatrice is the only female  among more than 30 men in the settlement. She sell them food, drinks, water and medicine and she takes care of them when they are sick."You have to be strong and focused to be able to live and do your business here, it is risky. We are not only afraid of wild animals, but also these men can be dangerous. I have made friends with few men here and they are protecting me and my business."

Beatrice joined the women in mining movement few months ago. She was introduced to the group by one of the young woman who participated in the women leadership development. She says the settlement is growing fast and more people are coming in. "I want to introduce the practice of respecting women in this area so that when new people comes in, they follow the rule"Beatrice  managed to acquire land for mining activities. She does not have capital and equipments to start mining activities but she is working hard and serving some of her income.

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