UN-backed event celebrates Somali women’s role in maritime industries and unveils new national initiatives to boost female participation in the blue economy.
Mogadishu, Somalia – Somalia joined the international community on Sunday to commemorate the International Day for Women in Maritime, hosting a landmark event that underscored the country’s renewed efforts to elevate women’s role in its vast sea-based economy.
Backed by the United Nations and led by the Ministry of Ports and Maritime Affairs, the celebration was more than a ceremonial tribute—it served as a platform for launching concrete measures to empower Somali women through education, employment, and leadership opportunities in the maritime sector.
The event brought together government officials, development partners, and women leaders from across Somalia to honor the progress made so far and address the persistent gender gaps in a sector that remains heavily male-dominated, both nationally and globally.
“The Ministry of Ports and Maritime Affairs pledges to break down the barriers that prevent women from participating in maritime activities,” said Fartun Abdukadir, Somalia’s Deputy Minister of Ports and Marine Transport, during her keynote address. “We are committed to combatting discrimination and will work to create jobs and leadership opportunities for Somali women in maritime.”
A Sector of Untapped Potential
Despite Somalia possessing the longest coastline on mainland Africa—spanning over 3,300 kilometers along the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden—women remain drastically underrepresented in its maritime economy.
According to estimates by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), women own just 4% to 5% of fishing boats in Somalia, highlighting the significant gender imbalance in ownership and decision-making roles within the blue economy.
The underrepresentation is not unique to Somalia. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) reports that women globally account for only 1.2% of the seafaring workforce, reflecting a deeply rooted structural issue across the entire industry.
Recognizing these disparities, Somali authorities are now working to bridge the gap through policy reform and programmatic action.
Launch of New Empowerment Initiative
During Sunday’s commemoration, the Somali government announced the launch of a new national initiative aimed at promoting gender equality in the maritime field. While full details of the program are expected in the coming months, officials confirmed it will focus on three main pillars: education and training, job creation, and leadership development for women.
“We want to ensure that no woman with the passion and capability to contribute to this vital sector is left behind,” said Deputy Minister Abdukadir. “This initiative will provide the support structures needed for women to not only participate but lead in maritime affairs.”
This move builds on the momentum of the Women in the Maritime Sector National Action Plan, introduced in 2023 by the Somali government in collaboration with the UN, to address long-standing barriers and improve access to career opportunities for women in the maritime and fisheries industries.
Recognizing Role Models: Women in Maritime Awards
As part of the celebrations, the government also held the Women in Maritime Awards, honoring 23 individuals and one youth organization for their outstanding contributions to Somalia’s maritime development.
Among the awardees was Ikran Mohamed Abdulahi, head of Human Capital Development at the Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy. Her dedication to building capacity and advocating for equal participation in the sector earned her widespread praise.
“To all the young Somali girls watching today, do not lose hope,” Abdulahi said after receiving her award. “You have a place in this industry, and your voice matters. We will continue to push for a future where every woman can thrive in maritime.”
International Support and Inspiration
The event also featured remarks from key development partners and UN representatives who reaffirmed their support for Somalia’s efforts to promote women in maritime.
“To all the Somali women in maritime, your leadership, vision and courage are shaping Somalia’s future and inspiring the region,” said Nasrin Khan, Head of the Rule of Law and Security Institutions Group at the United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS). “You are not just part of the maritime story; you are leading it.”
The United Nations has played a significant role in helping Somalia rebuild its maritime institutions, offering technical assistance and facilitating training for women in fisheries, port management, and marine navigation.
Breaking Cultural Barriers
Experts at the event noted that Somali women face not just professional but also cultural and societal obstacles in joining the maritime sector. Traditional perceptions of gender roles, limited access to education, and a lack of targeted financial support have long restricted women’s participation.
However, community leaders and women’s groups are now actively advocating for change, urging government agencies to implement gender-sensitive policies and invest in female-led maritime enterprises.
“It’s time to change the narrative,” said one local activist who attended the event. “Our oceans can provide jobs, food security, and economic growth—but only if we include women in the equation.”
A Vision for the Future
With its enormous marine resources, Somalia stands at a crossroads. The renewed focus on inclusivity and gender empowerment within the maritime sector is widely seen as a strategic move to unlock the full potential of its blue economy.
The government has pledged to track progress through regular reporting mechanisms and intends to integrate gender equity indicators into all upcoming maritime development programs.
“This is not just about women,” emphasized Deputy Minister Abdukadir. “This is about the future of Somalia. A strong, inclusive maritime sector will lift our communities, support our economy, and ensure that no one is left behind—especially our women.”
Conclusion
As Somalia looks to harness the power of its seas to drive national development, the voices of women are beginning to echo louder in a space that once shut them out. With political will, international backing, and a rising generation of female leaders, the tide appears to be turning for Somali women in maritime.
Sunday’s celebration was not just a tribute to what has been achieved—but a rallying call for what must still be done.
