Whatshot
Transnet NPA Supports World Maritime Day
Transnet NPA Supports World Maritime Day
South Africa's ports under the custodianship of Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) rolled out an array of activities to mark World Maritime Day on Thursday, 26 September.
Created by the United Nations (UN), via the International Maritime Organization (IMO), World Maritime Day celebrates the international maritime industry's contribution towards the world's economy, especially in shipping.
This year's theme globally, 'Empowering Women in theMaritimeCommunity', provided an opportunity for the South African port landlord to reflect on the contributions of women in the sector and to promote its achievements in terms of gender equality in an industry historically dominated by males.
At the Port of Durban's head office, GM: Port of Durban Moshe Motlohi unveiled #WomeninMaritime floor decals and Wall of Anchors portraits beautifully drawn by the port's very own Samukelo Gasa, a Civil Engineer at TNPA. These celebrate women who have played a significant role in the port's recent history.
The Port of Durban also supported the inaugural annual Invest in Maritime South Africa Summit held in partnership with SABBEX and other emerging maritime enterprises. The event from 26-27 September in Durban provided an investment platform to potential enterprises to present bankable projects ready for investor consideration.
"The International Transport Workers' Federation estimates that women make up just 2% of the global maritime workforce," said TNPA's Acting Chief Executive, Nozipho Mdawe. "For Transnet, as the largest and most crucial part of the freight logistics chain that delivers goods to each and every South Africa, women's development is a priority.
"Today women occupy half (50%) of the top management positions nationally within TNPA, three of our eight commercial ports have female port managers and women now fill 36% of all jobs across TNPA, bringing their unique characteristics to the workplace," she said.
Speaking during the busy week for the port authority, Acting CE Ms Mdawe said, "We are reminded of the important role we play as custodian of the South African port system in preserving and building upon the strong history of shipping in South Africa. Yet at the same time, we are focused on carving out a new maritime future that is more inclusive and accessible to all South Africans. This 'new' maritime outlook includes a strong focus on the development of women and other previously disadvantaged groups."