How Mantra Tanzania Works For Sustainable Women Empowerment, Safeguarding Health And Nutrition Environment

 

By Valentine Oforo 

AS the International Women’s Day (IWD) nearing, a sense of anticipation and commitment fills the air at Mantra Tanzania, a ROSATOM subsidiary company which currently on the cusp of launching its uranium mining operations in the heart of Tanzania.

Amidst the meticulous preparations, a core value shines brightly at the forefront of Mantra's mission, the empowerment of women, the patriotic value which is not merely a statement, but a guiding principle that intertwines with every facet of the company's daily operations.

A vibrant uranium mining company, christened ‘Mantra Tanzania Limited’, which operates in Namtumbo-Ruvuma, is highly committed to promoting gender diversity and inclusivity within its workforce. 

Giving an exclusive interview to this publication, the company's Legal Manager, Dua Mbapila Rwehumbiza expressed that company is working to create a working environment where women are encouraged to excel and lead. 

 “We’re planning to achieve this by implementing targeted recruitment strategies and professional development programs to ensure that women not only join their teams but also thrive and advance in their careers,” Rwehumbiza expressed.

She added that, in the realm of operational safety, the Mkuju River Project owners, Mantra, are unwavering in their adherence to the highest standards, saying the timely protocols are meticulously crafted to align with the Tanzanian Atomic Energy Commission (TAEC) and international benchmarks, drawing from ROSATOM's extensive expertise in uranium mining.

Speaking on her side, Khadija Kawawa, Mantra Sustainability Advisor and former Public Relations Manager said the company has currently kept focus on Investing in women's health initiatives, not only improving the well-being of the community but also contributing to sustainable development.

Kawawa elaborated further that the introduction of the alternative livelihood sustainable project in the Likuyu community exemplifies Mantra Tanzania's holistic approach to empowerment, saying the initiative has been designed to provide mostly women with new economic opportunities, equipping them with the skills and resources needed to start their own businesses or engage in sustainable agriculture. 

“By fostering economic independence, we are enabling women to be architects of their own futures and active participants in their community's growth,” she insisted.

Expressing over the same interventions, the Managing Director of Mantra Tanzania, Aleksandr Riabchenko, noted that empowering women was integral to the enduring prosperity of the company’s operations and the entire regions that Mantra Tanzania serve. 

“At Mantra, we are committed to creating a work environment that fosters and nurtures female talent, ensuring that women have equitable access to future employment opportunities in both critical and professional roles. Through continuous learning and development programs, we aim to cultivate a diverse leadership pipeline that will drive innovation and excellence within the Tanzanian Mining Industry," Riabchenko observed.

Moreover, in his recent statement, Riabchenko expressed deep appreciation for the pivotal role played by the Namtumbo District Commissioner, Hon. Ngollo Malenya, in fostering collaboration and progress within Namtumbo, especially in assisting the company to attain it women empowerment zeal.

Majani Wambura, Mantra’s Sustainability Manager detailed that the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts are closely aligned with environmental stewardship, recognizing that women often bear the brunt of environmental degradation. 

He said the company is devoted to implementing environmentally sound practices throughout its operations, with an eye to minimize ecological footprint, added “We engage women in our environmental programs, empowering them to become custodians of their natural surroundings and beneficiaries of a cleaner, more sustainable world.”

He added that the spirit of International Women's Day, Mantra Tanzania celebrates the vital role that women play not only in the company, but also in the fabric of Tanzanian society.

“We are very proud to be a catalyst for positive change, demonstrating through action that the empowerment of women is interwoven with the success of our operations, the health of our communities, and the preservation of our environment,” he added.

As Mantra witnesses the historic leadership of Her Excellency Dr President Samia Suluhu, the company reminded of the immense potential and capability of women in positions of authority. According to the company, President Samia Suluhu's groundbreaking achievement illustrates the power of women in shaping the future of our nation. 

Mantra Tanzania embraces spirit of leadership and is committed to fostering an environment where women are prepared to assume leadership roles at all levels, reflecting our belief in the essential role women play in driving positive change and progress, not just within our company but within society as a whole. Among others, the company is dedicated to empowering women to take the helm and contribute to a future where gender equality and inclusive leadership are the norm.