Messages on the International Day for Women in the Maritime Sector |19 May 2022
Minister Ferrari
‘We must continue to raise the profile of women in the maritime domain’
“Today we commemorate the International Day for Women in the Maritime sector. It is a day to celebrate women in various industries and services related to maritime affairs and for us to recognise the importance of promoting the recruitment, retention, and long-term employment of women in this vital sector.
“Seychelles’ economy is presently very dependent on the tourism and fishing industries, and as such, the maritime sector plays an important role in the country’s economic growth, prosperity, and development.
“Women in this sector should therefore, be encouraged to participate fully in the pursuit of these socio-economic goals. For this very reason, it is important that we continue in our efforts to raise the profile of women in the maritime domain and reinforce our commitment to pursuing gender equality as well as support all efforts to address the current gender imbalance in maritime. Equality for women will mean greater awareness of the opportunities and career pathways for women in this sector and the need to empower them is of paramount importance. This can be achieved through training, knowledge and experience sharing with the support of local institutions and international partners.
“Through Womesa Seychelles, women are raising their voices to make a difference, ensuring that policies are developed that promote equity, safe and decent working conditions for all who work in the sector, and provide an environment where women are recognised for career development opportunities in maritime training institutes and maritime administrations. In this respect, the Seychelles Maritime Academy has an important role to play in attracting more of our girls to sign up for training opportunities.
“The government of Seychelles joins other countries and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in celebrating the contribution and achievement of Seychellois women in the maritime sector.”
Designated Minister Jean-François Ferrari
Mnister for Fisheries & the Blue Economy