“We have gathered here today to celebrate the women of the sea. In previous times, this would have been an uncharted territory for women, but I am glad that women have made tremendous endeavor in this male dominant career.”
Minister Gbeme Horace-Kollie furthered by saying “while records show that women currently make up only small percentage of Liberia’s maritime workforce, a trend we see mirrored globally, their contributions are undeniable.”
In her remarks, the Gender Minister indicated that the striking imbalance underscores the limited involvement of women in the maritime sector, highlighting the urgent need for greater empowerment of women in the profession.
“Allow me to seize this moment to issue a call to action, urging us all to collectively champion the empowerment of women in the sector. This involves prioritizing technical training opportunities, ensuring the inclusion of more competent women in decision-making processes, and implementing gender and social inclusion policies,” Minister Horace-Kollie reechoed.
The Gender Minister said: “It is incumbent upon all of us, as government and stakeholders in the maritime community, to lead a non- stop advocacy campaign in addressing these disparities and create a more inclusive environment where every individual regardless of gender can thrive.”
“Let this International Day of Women in Maritime be a springboard for action. Together, let us work towards a future where Liberian women are not only active participants but also leaders in shaping the safe horizons of our maritime industry. Let us navigate towards a brighter horizon, where women are not only passengers, but also captains of their own destiny in the Liberian Maritime sector,” Minister Gbeme Horace-Kollie remained.
“To the women in Maritime, I urge you to ignore people who try to limit you. If it feels right and is for the right reasons, persevere, strive, study and go for it.”
