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Welcome to WOMESA Tanzania

Welcome to WOMESA Tanzania.

Association for Women in the Maritime Sector in Eastern and Southern Africa (WOMESA) was established in 2007 under the auspices of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) program on the Integration of Women in the Maritime Sector (IWMS). WOMESA Tanzania Chapter was inaugurated on 25th November, 2011.

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WOMESA is an association with members drawn from 24 countries within Eastern and Southern Africa.

Angola | Eritrea | Mozambique | Sudan | Botswana | Ethiopia | Namibia | Swaziland | Burundi | Lesotho | Rwanda | Tanzania | Comoros | Madagascar | Seychelles | Uganda | Kenya | Malawi | Somalia | Zambia | Djibout | Mauritius | South Africa | Zimbabwe

UPCOMING EVENTS

African Day of Seas and Ocean: On 26Th July 2025

Vision | Mission | Objectives

Vision

To be a key partner for gender inclusivity in sustainable development agenda of the maritime sector in the United Republic of Tanzania.

Mission

To promote active women participation in the maritime sector and contribute to the growth of the industry in the United Republic of Tanzania through pursuance of activities aimed at promoting gender equality.

Objectives

The objectives of the Association are:

To integrate women in the main stream maritime activities
To promote women’s access to quality employment in the maritime sector through education, training, and carrier opportunities
To lobby for increasing the percentage of women at the senior management level within the maritime sector.
To enhance the inclusion of women in the maritime sector.
To actively support the advancement of women to managerial and higher levels in the maritime sector and thereby strengthen the maritime capacity in the region so as to promote safe, secure and efficient shipping on cleaner oceans.
To promote cooperation friendship and understanding through the exchange of knowledge and dissemination of information.

Think Maritime, Think Women

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Our Services

What We Do

WOMESA is an organization dedicated to promoting gender inclusivity in the maritime industry. In the same manner, WOMESA Tanzania embark some of its key activities which include the following:

Mentorship

Organise mentorship programmes

Schools Visit

Promote maritime careers to students

Capacity Building Program

Organise conferences, workshops, trainings and technical tours

CSR

Undertake corporate and social responsibilities activities

Maritime Training and Opportunities

Seek for seatime, industrial training, internship, training opportunities and job opportunities for members and mentees

Advanced Maritime Activities

Organise beach cleaning activities and charity walks

WOMESA Significant Influence

WOMESA has significantly influenced women’s roles in the maritime sector by promoting gender inclusivity and professional development. Some key impacts include:

Increased Representation – More women are entering maritime careers, breaking traditional gender barriers

Access to Education & Training – WOMESA has promoted maritime education and training programmes, helping women gain essential skills

Leadership & Job Opportunities – Advocacy efforts have led to more women securing managerial and decision-making roles in the industry

Networking & Mentorship – Women in maritime benefit from mentorship programs and professional networks that support career growth

Policy Influence – WOMESA has contributed to discussions on gender equality in policies and strategies related to maritime sector , encouraging inclusive practices

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1020+

Active Users

1980+

Support Done

2020+

Call Receive

Our Team

Our Office Bearers

The following is the WOMESA Tanzania dedicated team holding offices to run day to day activities.

Fatuma Abdallah Masenene

CHAIRPERSON

Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC)

Adv. Wemaeli Wilfred Mtei

VICE CHAIRPERSON

Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA)

Dora Patrick Ndabaga

SECRETARY

Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC)

CPA Stella Oswald Mponda

TREASURER

Dar es Salaam Maritime Institute (DMI)

Eng. Farida Shabani Zowange

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION

Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA)

Adv. Sharifa Abubakar Khamis

COUNCIL MEMBER

Zanzibar Maritime Authority (ZMA)

Eng. Fortunata M. Kakwaya CMILT

OUTGOING CHAIRPERSON

Dar es Salaam Maritime Institute (DMI)

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Testimonials

Our Testimonials

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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) for women working in the maritime industry:

General Questions

What career opportunities are available for women in maritime?

Women in the maritime industry have a growing range of career opportunities, both at sea and onshore. Here are some key roles:

Seafaring Careers

  • Deck Officer – Navigating and managing ship operations.
  • Marine Engineer – Overseeing engine room operations and maintenance.
  • Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) – Handling electrical and automation systems on ships.
  • Ship Captain – Leading vessel operations and crew management.

Shore-Based Careers

  • Maritime Lecturer – Teaching and training future seafarers.
  • Maritime Surveyor – Inspecting ships for safety and compliance.
  • Port Operations Manager – Managing logistics and cargo handling at ports.
  • Marine Environmental Specialist – Working on sustainability and ocean conservation.

Specialized Roles

  • Maritime Law & Policy Expert – Advising on international regulations.
  • Shipbroker – Facilitating vessel sales and chartering.
  • Maritime Journalist – Reporting on industry trends and developments.

The industry is evolving, with more women taking leadership positions.

How can women enter the maritime industry?

Women can enter the maritime industry through various pathways, despite it being historically male-dominated. Here are some key steps:

  • Education & Training: Enrolling in maritime academies or technical schools that offer courses in navigation, engineering, and logistics.
  • Scholarships & Fellowships: Organizations like the International Maritime Organization (IMO) provide gender-specific fellowships to support women in maritime careers here.
  • Networking & Associations: Joining professional groups such as Women in Maritime Associations (WIMAs), which help connect women with opportunities and mentorship here.
  • Career Opportunities: Women can work in various roles, including ship navigation, engineering, port management, and maritime law here.
  • Industry Support: The IMO and other organizations actively promote gender equality through policies and initiatives that encourage women to take leadership roles in shipping here.

The industry is evolving, and more women are breaking barriers to establish themselves in maritime careers.

What are the biggest challenges faced by women at sea?

Women at sea face several challenges, including:

  • Gender Discrimination: Women seafarers make up only about 1% of the global workforce, and many encounter biases that limit career progression.
  • Workplace Safety Concerns: Issues such as harassment and lack of proper facilities onboard remain significant obstacles.
  • Pay Disparities: Women often experience wage gaps compared to their male counterparts in similar roles.
  • Limited Career Advancement: Systemic biases and stereotypes frequently confine women to junior positions, making leadership roles harder to attain.
  • Balancing Family & Career: Long periods away from home make it difficult for women to manage family responsibilities alongside their maritime careers.
  • Certification & Qualification Barriers: In some regions, national qualifications may not be internationally recognized, creating additional hurdles for women seeking employment.

Despite these challenges, efforts are being made to improve gender diversity in the maritime industry.

Are there other specific organizations supporting women in maritime?

Yes! Several organizations actively support women in the maritime industry. Here are a few:

  • International Maritime Organization (IMO) – They run the Women in Maritime program, which promotes gender equality and provides training opportunities for women in the sector. Learn more here.
  • Women in Maritime Operations (WIMOs) – A nonprofit dedicated to recruiting, retaining, and advancing women in maritime careers through mentorship, education, and networking. Check them out here.

These organizations help women overcome barriers and build successful careers at sea.

Workplace & Safety

What measures are in place to ensure the safety of women on ships?

Several measures are in place to ensure the safety of women on ships, including:

  • Training & Education – Maritime organizations provide specialized training on harassment prevention, emergency protocols, and security awareness.
  • Security Measures – Ships are equipped with surveillance cameras, restricted access areas, and onboard security personnel to address potential threats.
  • Safe Accommodations – Female crew members are often assigned cabins with other women, and some ships provide panic buttons for emergencies.
  • Reporting Procedures – Clear protocols exist for reporting harassment or safety concerns, ensuring incidents are taken seriously and investigated.
  • Health & Hygiene Support – Ships are increasingly providing sanitary materials, disposal facilities, and medical lockers stocked with hygiene products.
  • Workplace Policies – Some maritime employers offer flexible work arrangements, maternity leave, and childcare support to help women balance career and family.

These measures aim to create a safer and more inclusive environment for women at sea.

How do maritime companies address harassment and discrimination?

Maritime companies implement various policies to address harassment and discrimination, ensuring a safer and more inclusive environment for all crew members. Some key measures include:

  • Clear Company Policies – Many companies establish strict anti-harassment and anti-discrimination policies, often aligned with international standards like the ILO Violence and Harassment Convention (C190).
  • Mandatory Training – Seafarers undergo training on workplace harassment, bullying prevention, and diversity awareness to foster a respectful environment.
  • Reporting Mechanisms – Companies provide confidential reporting channels, allowing crew members to report incidents without fear of retaliation.
  • Zero-Tolerance Approach – Many organizations enforce strict disciplinary actions against offenders, ensuring that harassment and discrimination are taken seriously.
  • Support Systems – Some companies offer counseling services and peer support networks to assist victims of harassment.
  • Industry Collaboration – Organizations like the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and International Labour Organization (ILO) work with governments and shipowners to strengthen policies and enforcement.

These measures aim to create a safer and more equitable workplace at sea.

What are the maternity leave policies for women in maritime?

Maternity leave policies for women in maritime vary across companies and regions, but some organizations are making significant strides to support female seafarers. Here are a few examples:

  • Hafnia’s Maternity Policy – Hafnia introduced an industry-leading policy offering up to 18 weeks of paid maternity leave, repatriation support, and a structured return-to-work pathway.
  • BW LPG’s Policy – BW LPG provides six months of maternity leave for female seafarers, ensuring financial security during their time onshore. They also offer three months of basic wages in case of miscarriage, a rare initiative in the industry.
  • Industry-Wide Efforts – Reports highlight that maternity rights and maternal care remain under-addressed in maritime, leading to calls for better policies to retain female talent.

These policies aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women at sea.

Are there separate accommodations for women on vessels?

Yes, many vessels provide separate accommodations for women to ensure privacy and safety. Maritime regulations, such as the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC, 2006), require ships to maintain decent living conditions for all crew members, including gender-specific accommodations.

Some key provisions include:

  • Separate Sleeping Quarters – Many ships designate cabins specifically for female crew members to ensure privacy.
  • Dedicated Sanitary Facilities – Ships often provide separate shower rooms and lavatories for women.
  • Safety Measures – Some vessels implement restricted access to female accommodations to enhance security.

However, policies can vary depending on the type of vessel and the company operating it.

Career Growth & Training

What qualifications are required for women to become seafarers?

Women who want to become seafarers need to meet specific qualifications, which generally align with industry standards for all maritime professionals. Here are the key requirements:

  • Educational Background – A degree or diploma in maritime studies, marine engineering, or nautical science is often required.
  • STCW Certification – The Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) is mandatory for all seafarers, covering safety, survival, and operational procedures.
  • Medical Fitness – Seafarers must pass a medical examination to ensure they meet the physical and mental health standards required for life at sea.
  • Sea Service Experience – Many roles require practical sea experience, which can be gained through cadetship programs or internships.
  • Specialized Training – Depending on the role, additional certifications in firefighting, first aid, and security awareness may be necessary.
  • Licensing & Competency Exams – Officers and engineers must pass competency exams to obtain professional licenses.

Some organizations are actively working to increase opportunities for women in maritime careers.

How can women advance to leadership roles in maritime?

Women can advance to leadership roles in maritime by leveraging education, networking, and industry initiatives. Here are some key strategies:

  • Higher Education & Certifications – Pursuing advanced degrees in maritime studies, marine engineering, or business management can open doors to leadership positions.
  • Mentorship & Networking – Joining organizations like Women in Maritime Associations (WIMAs) and IMO’s Women in Maritime Program helps connect women with mentors and leadership opportunities here.
  • Industry Experience – Gaining hands-on experience in operational roles, ship management, and logistics builds credibility for leadership positions.
  • Leadership Training – Programs focused on executive leadership, crisis management, and strategic decision-making help women prepare for senior roles here.
  • Policy Advocacy – Engaging in discussions on gender equality within maritime organizations can help shape policies that support women’s career growth here.

The maritime industry is evolving, and more women are breaking barriers to take on leadership roles.

Are there scholarships or training programs specifically for women?

Yes! Several scholarships and training programs are designed specifically to support women in maritime careers. Here are some notable ones:

  • IMO Fellowships – The International Maritime Organization (IMO) offers gender-specific fellowships to help women advance in maritime education. These include programs at the World Maritime University (WMU) in Sweden and the IMO International Maritime Law Institute (IMLI) in Malta. Learn more here.
  • MLA College Scholarships – MLA College provides five full scholarships for women pursuing degrees in Sustainable Maritime Operations. These scholarships are open to applicants worldwide and aim to increase female representation in leadership roles within the industry. Details here.
  • Blue Women Africa Initiatives – This program focuses on strengthening the presence of women in maritime, offering scholarships and specialized training to help women build successful careers at sea. More information here.

These programs are helping to break barriers and create more opportunities for women in maritime.

What networking opportunities exist for women in the industry?

Women in the maritime industry have several networking opportunities to connect, grow, and advance their careers. Here are some key platforms:

  • Women in Maritime Associations (WIMAs) – Supported by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), WIMAs provide mentorship, training, and networking opportunities across different regions here.
  • Maritime SheEO – A global initiative focused on empowering women in maritime through leadership programs, mentorship, and conferences here.
  • Industry Conferences & Events – Events like the Maritime SheEO Conference bring together professionals to discuss gender diversity and leadership in the sector here.
  • Online Communities & Forums – Platforms such as LinkedIn groups and maritime-specific forums allow women to share experiences and opportunities.

These networks help women build connections, access career opportunities, and advocate for gender equality in maritime.

Industry Regulations & Support

What is the IMO’s role in promoting gender equality in maritime?

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) plays a crucial role in promoting gender equality in the maritime industry. Through its Women in Maritime program, IMO focuses on three key pillars: Training, Visibility, and Recognition.

Some of its major initiatives include:

  • Capacity Building – IMO provides gender-specific fellowships and facilitates access to high-level technical training for women in maritime.
  • Policy Advocacy – The organization supports gender-inclusive policies and works with member states to integrate gender considerations into maritime regulations.
  • Networking & Associations – IMO has helped establish Women in Maritime Associations (WIMAs) across different regions, fostering mentorship and professional development.
  • International Day for Women in Maritime – IMO leads global efforts to celebrate and highlight women’s contributions to the industry, reinforcing the importance of gender diversity.

These efforts align with the UN Sustainable Development Goal 5, which aims to achieve gender equality and empower women worldwide.

How do international maritime laws protect women workers?

International maritime laws provide protections for women workers through various conventions and regulations. Some key frameworks include:

  • Maritime Labour Convention (MLC, 2006) – This convention sets global standards for working conditions, ensuring fair treatment, decent accommodations, and protection against discrimination.
  • International Labour Organization (ILO) Standards – The ILO has adopted multiple conventions to safeguard seafarers’ rights, including gender-sensitive policies to promote equality.
  • IMO’s Women in Maritime Program – The International Maritime Organization (IMO) supports gender inclusion through training, visibility, and recognition initiatives.
  • UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 5) – The UN promotes gender equality in maritime through policies that encourage fair employment and leadership opportunities for women.

Despite these protections, challenges remain, and ongoing efforts aim to strengthen enforcement and improve conditions for women at sea.

What initiatives exist to increase female representation in shipping?

Several initiatives are working to increase female representation in shipping:

  • All Aboard Alliance – Industry leaders launched this alliance to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in maritime workplaces.
  • Maritime Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Innovation Lab – A collaborative effort by companies like Hafnia and Wilhelmsen to develop solutions for gender diversity in shipping.
  • Women in Maritime Associations (WIMAs) – Supported by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), WIMAs provide mentorship and networking opportunities.
  • Svitzer’s Training Program for Women Seafarers – This initiative in Egypt has successfully introduced female cadets into the maritime workforce.
  • IMO’s Women in Maritime Program – Focused on training, visibility, and recognition, this program supports women’s career development in shipping.

These efforts are helping to break barriers and create more opportunities for women in maritime.

Are there mentorship programs for women in maritime?

Yes! Several mentorship programs support women in maritime careers, helping them navigate challenges and advance professionally. Here are some notable ones:

  • Maritime SheEO Mentorship Program – This initiative connects aspiring women professionals with experienced mentors in the industry, offering guidance, networking, and career development opportunities here.
  • WIMOs Mentoring Program – Women in Maritime Operations (WIMOs) provides mentorship to help women achieve leadership roles, offering structured guidance and industry insights here.

These programs are designed to empower women and foster career growth in maritime.

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