On Sunday, Somalia, with the support of the United Nations, commemorated the International Day for Women in Maritime by honoring the essential role women play in the country’s maritime sector. The event served not only as a celebration of women’s contributions but also as a springboard for a new national initiative aimed at increasing female participation in maritime careers through targeted education and employment programs.
Despite their significant potential, Somali women remain largely underrepresented in maritime professions. Systemic gender-based barriers continue to restrict their access to formal employment, often relegating them to informal or unpaid roles within the sector. These challenges highlight the urgent need for inclusive reforms to unlock opportunities for women.
Speaking at the event, Fartun Abdukadir, Deputy Minister of Ports and Marine Transport, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing these issues. “The Ministry of Ports and Maritime Affairs is determined to eliminate the obstacles that hinder women’s involvement in the maritime industry. We will actively work to dismantle discrimination and promote employment and leadership opportunities for Somali women,” she stated.
This declaration builds upon earlier initiatives aimed at gender equality in the maritime field. One such effort is the Women in the Maritime Sector National Action Plan, launched in 2023 through a collaborative effort between Somalia and the United Nations. This policy framework was designed to create a more inclusive maritime environment by expanding educational pathways and facilitating access to job markets for women across all maritime-related disciplines.
However, tangible progress remains limited. Data from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) suggests that women own only 4% to 5% of fishing vessels in Somalia — a statistic that underscores their marginalization despite Somalia’s vast maritime resources. With a coastline extending approximately 3,333 kilometers along the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden, Somalia possesses enormous untapped potential for sustainable maritime development, which cannot be fully realized without the active inclusion of women.
Sunday’s observance also recognized the achievements of individuals and organizations making strides in this field. Twenty-three women and one youth organization were honored with the Women in Maritime Awards. Among the awardees was Ikran Mohamed Abdulahi, who leads the Human Capital Development Department at the Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy. In her address, she encouraged women to remain resilient in the face of adversity, urging them “never to lose hope.”
The global context mirrors Somalia’s challenges. According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), women represent a mere 1.2% of the worldwide seafaring workforce, highlighting the entrenched gender gap that persists in maritime professions globally.
Nasrin Khan, Head of the Rule of Law and Security Institutions Group at the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM), offered words of encouragement and recognition: “To all the Somali women in maritime, your leadership, your courage, and your vision are helping to shape the future of Somalia and serve as an inspiration across the region. You are not just participating in the maritime narrative — you are defining it.”
Through continued advocacy, education, and inclusive policy-making, Somalia is taking meaningful steps toward ensuring that women are no longer sidelined in its maritime future, but instead are empowered to lead it.
