There is the pressing demand for skilled workers and competent innovative leaders in all areas of maritime activity, including women professionals to fully explore the potential of the nation’s blue economy, says Sylvia Asana Dauda Owu, Interim President of the Women in Maritime of West and Central Africa (WIMOWCA).
Speaking at the launch of the association in Accra, she said sector institutions and firms that do not embrace diversity and support the potential contribution and leadership of qualified women would be left behind in this new era.
“Failure of the maritime industry to attract, employ and retain women as employees and also promote and support women in leadership roles represents a significant lost opportunity,” she said.
Ms. Owu indicated that women have lagged across the maritime and trade logistics value chain despite boasting the right competence and skills for jobs in the industry.
The association therefore, she said, would harness the potential and contribution of women in West and Central Africa to ensure the sustainable development of the maritime industry in Africa.