By Raymond Zaka
Female cadets from Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) today participated in a mentorship webinar organized by The Association for Women in the Maritime Sector in Eastern & Southern Africa (WOMESA), Kenya Chapter, as part of preparations for the 2026 International Day for Women in Maritime to be marked on 18 May under the theme: “From Policy to Practice: Advancing Gender Equality for Maritime Excellence.”
The webinar brought together female cadets, seafarers, and maritime professionals to discuss opportunities, challenges, and career growth for women in the maritime industry. Participants received mentorship and practical guidance on transitioning from maritime training institutions into professional roles on board vessels and within the wider maritime sector.
Key discussions focused on career development, workplace preparedness, leadership, gender inclusion, and the importance of mentorship in supporting women pursuing maritime careers. The session also emphasized the importance of creating safer and more inclusive work environments that foster the recruitment, retention, and advancement of women in maritime professions.
WOMESA Kenya continues to advocate for gender equity by promoting access to maritime education, training, technology, and leadership opportunities for women across the region.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) established the International Day for Women in Maritime to raise the profile of women in the maritime industry, strengthen efforts towards gender equality, and support Sustainable Development Goal 5 on gender equity while addressing the gender imbalance in the global maritime workforce.
