By Paschal Emeka
Abuja
The Africa Blue Economy Roundtable has announced plans to honour outstanding women across Africa’s maritime sector as part of activities marking World Seafarers Day on June 25, 2026.
Convened by Dr. Piriye Kiyaramo, the recognition forms part of global celebrations for the International Maritime Organization’s “Day of the Seafarer,” dedicated to the 1.5 million-plus seafarers who keep international trade and supply chains running.
This year’s IMO theme, “Carrying World Trade. Carrying the Risks,” draws attention to the hazards and pressure seafarers face at sea, especially in conflict-affected and high-risk maritime zones.
Dr. Kiyaramo said African women remain the “unseen engine” of the blue economy. While seafaring is still male-dominated, women lead the backbone of coastal livelihoods, particularly in fisheries and trade.
Across the continent, women account for over 50% of fish processors, traders and post-harvest handlers. Their work reduces waste, adds value and ensures food and income for millions of coastal households.
Beyond fisheries, African women are gaining ground in ports, logistics, customs, marine survey and maritime law. These sectors are critical to trade efficiency, revenue collection and port competitiveness.
Female scientists and environmental managers are also driving ocean research, mangrove restoration and climate adaptation projects that protect the ecosystems coastal communities rely on.
From boat-building and cold-chain services to eco-tourism and seaweed farming, women-led businesses are creating jobs and strengthening resilience in coastal towns from Senegal to Tanzania.
Dr. Kiyaramo stressed that investing in women delivers direct economic gains. With training, finance, safety standards and leadership roles, household incomes rise, child nutrition improves, and communities cope better with climate shocks.
“Let us recognize these women for their resilience and courage. Gender is not a limitation, it is a launchpad for excellence,” he said. “When we lift women in the blue economy, we lift entire coastal communities.”
The Roundtable is now calling for nominations of African women excelling in shipping and seafaring, ports and logistics, fisheries and aquaculture, marine science and conservation, maritime safety and security, and maritime policy and law.
Selected honourees will receive public recognition and media visibility to amplify their impact and inspire the next generation. Nominations should include full name, role/organization, country and a 100-word citation, and be sent to Dr. Sophie De Sylvie, Head of the Women’s Wing, at sophiedjoufa@yahoo.fr.
The Africa Blue Economy Roundtable says the initiative reaffirms that gender inclusion is not just about equity, but a core economic strategy for securing Africa’s blue future.
