Women in Maritime Africa (WIMAfrica) and Sifax Group have joined forces to champion gender equality in the maritime industry.
The move is seen in several quarters as a significant step forward for female representation in the maritime sector of the economy which many have seen as a male dominated sector.
To this end, a strategic meeting between the two organisations has taken place at Sifax Group Headquarters, Apapa, Lagos.
A statement issued by Sifax Group and made available to Maritime Bits said two organizations aim to foster mentorship, sponsorship, and skills development programs that will empower women to pursue and excel in maritime careers, where female representation remains below 1 percent.
Signed by Sifax Group Corporate Communications Officer, Mr. Olatunde Adewola, the statement said key figures from WIMAfrica, including Continental Vice President Mrs. Carolyn Ufere and Nigeria’s President Mrs. Rollens Macfoy, emphasized the need for corporate partnerships to expand access to training and professional networks for women.
On her part, Sifax Coordinating Director, Mrs. Wunmi Eniola-Jegede, expressed the conglomerate commitment to gender inclusivity and highlighted the presence of women in leadership roles across its various sectors.
In line with this initiative, WIMAfrica has extended an invitation to Sifax Group to support its upcoming conference in Lagos with the theme “New Economy and Moving Forward for the Next Generation,” which seeks to inspire young women to explore maritime career paths like engineering and marine security.
The collaboration between WIMAfrica and SIFAX Group marks a crucial move toward an inclusive future in Africa’s maritime industry.