The Africa Blue Economy Roundtable (ABER) will honour outstanding women in Africa’s maritime sector as part of activities marking the 2026 World Seafarers Day.

The recognition initiative is aimed at highlighting women’s contributions to maritime development and strengthening coastal livelihoods across the continent.

World Seafarers Day, officially known as the Day of the Seafarer, is observed annually on June 25 by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

The day celebrates more than 1.5 million seafarers worldwide who sustain global trade, shipping operations, and international supply chains.

The 2026 campaign is themed, “Carrying World Trade. Carrying the Risks.”

The theme draws attention to the challenges, pressures, and safety risks faced by seafarers, particularly in conflict-prone and high-risk maritime regions.

ABER Convener, Dr. Piriye Kiyaramo, said women remain a driving force behind Africa’s blue economy despite the male dominance of the seafaring profession.

He noted that women account for more than half of Africa’s fish processors, traders, and post-harvest handlers, supporting food security and household incomes.

According to him, women are also making significant contributions in port operations, logistics, customs services, maritime law, and marine environmental management.

Kiyaramo said female professionals are increasingly leading research, ocean conservation, mangrove restoration, and climate adaptation projects across Africa.

He added that women-led enterprises in sectors such as eco-tourism, seaweed farming, cold-chain services, and boat-building are creating jobs in coastal communities.

“Investing in women through training, financing, safety standards, and leadership opportunities improves household incomes and strengthens community resilience,” he said.

Kiyaramo urged greater recognition of women in maritime, describing them as symbols of resilience, innovation, and excellence.

“This year’s theme must also reflect the experiences of African women who carry trade, face risks, and provide solutions through leadership and innovation,” he stated.

He stressed that empowering women in the blue economy would boost food security, create jobs, and strengthen coastal resilience across Africa.

ABER has invited nominations of women demonstrating excellence in shipping, seafaring, ports and logistics, fisheries, aquaculture, marine science, conservation, maritime safety, policy, and law.

Selected honourees will receive recognition and media visibility to showcase their achievements and inspire future generations of women in maritime.

Nominations should include the nominee’s name, organisation, country, and a 100-word citation highlighting their impact.

Entries are to be submitted to the Head of ABER Women’s Wing, Dr. Sophie De Sylvie, via email at sophiedjoufa@yahoo.fr.

ABER said the initiative reinforces the message that gender inclusion is not only a matter of equity but also a strategic investment in Africa’s blue economy future.