Frequently, women are unfairly viewed as less capable and strong, which leads to their underrepresentation in certain roles, particularly within the maritime sector.
This situation is evident in the Nigerian maritime industry, where women make up less than 20 percent of licensed agents.
Most women in this field tend to work in support roles near the ports, such as point-of-sale services, selling recharge cards, food vending, and making phone calls.
This underrepresentation can be attributed to societal stereotypes that underestimate women’s physical and mental abilities, even though, in reality, women are just as capable as men in most tasks.
Recent developments in the maritime sector also reveal a reluctance among ship-owners to hire female seafarers, leaving many qualified women jobless while less qualified men continue to work.
Interestingly, studies have shown that when given the opportunity, women often demonstrate greater diligence and commitment to their duties compared to their male counterparts.
One significant challenge faced by the maritime sector may stem from not harnessing women’s full potential in the industry.
In Lagos, the Chairperson of Women in Maritime Africa, Mrs. Rollen Macfoy, emphasized the need for women to receive equal opportunities in the sector.
She urged the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, to support women’s capacity building and consider women for key appointments, emphasizing that this would enhance productivity in the sector.
Macfoy stressed that African women in maritime have valuable skills and experience and are ready to collaborate to advance the industry, calling for gender-sensitive appointments.
During the 2023 Lagos International Maritime Week, Damilola Adebimpe, the Vice President of the Female Seafarers Association of Nigeria, highlighted the challenges women face in the sector, including denial of opportunities and inadequate facilities on ships.
She stressed the importance of advocating for women’s equal participation in maritime.
Macfoy reiterated the importance of empowering women in the sector to unlock their full potential.
The Women in Maritime Africa association supports women with scholarships and job opportunities in maritime-related fields.
Eunice Ezeoke, the Nigerian Chapter Chairperson of Women in Shipping and Transport Africa, advocated for women to hold leadership positions in government agencies, especially within the maritime sector.
She emphasized that women aspire not only to clean waterways but also to be policymakers, decision-makers, and leaders within organizations and agencies in the industry.
