Subtitle/Alternate Title

Women Empowerment in the Gemstone Value Addition: A case of Zambia

First Advisor

Scott Merrill

Third Advisor

Nina Miller

Reader

Monica LaBiche Brown

College

Regis College

Degree Name

Master of Development Practice

Document Type

Dissertation - Open Access

Number of Pages

86 pages

Abstract

The Zambian gemstone industry is a critical sector with vast potential for economic growth. However, women in this industry often face significant barriers to participating in value-adding processes, particularly in cutting and polishing gemstones. This capstone project explores the challenges and opportunities for empowering women in Zambian gemstone value-adding through cutting and polishing.

By conducting a comprehensive literature review and engaging in primary research, this study aims to elucidate the multifaceted obstacles that hinder women's full participation in the cutting and polishing aspects of the gemstone value chain. It also aims to highlight the socio-cultural and economic factors that contribute to women's underrepresentation in this sector.

Furthermore, the project aims to identify best practices, successful interventions, and empowerment initiatives from other regions or industries that have effectively promoted gender inclusion in value-addition processes. Drawing from these insights, the capstone endeavors to develop targeted recommendations and strategies to empower women in the Zambian gemstone industry, particularly in cutting and polishing.

Through this research, the capstone seeks to contribute to the discourse on gender equality and women's economic empowerment. The project aspires to create new economic opportunities for women and catalyze broader socio-economic development within the Zambian gemstone industry by fostering an environment that enables and supports women in gemstone cutting and polishing.

Date of Award

Summer 2024

Location (Creation)

Denver, Colo.

Rights Statement

All content in this Collection is owned by and subject to the exclusive control of Regis University and the authors of the materials. It is available only for research purposes and may not be used in violation of copyright laws or for unlawful purposes. The materials may not be downloaded in whole or in part without permission of the copyright holder or as otherwise authorized in the “fair use” standards of the U.S. copyright laws and regulations.

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