.Urges action on gender equality

The Women in Maritime and Energy (WIME) Awards has joined the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the global maritime community in commemorating the 2026 International Day for Women in Maritime, marked annually on May 18.

This year’s theme, “From Policy to Practice: Advancing Gender Equality for Maritime Excellence,” highlights the need to move beyond policy formulation towards practical implementation of gender inclusion initiatives across the maritime industry.

In a statement issued to mark the occasion, WIME Awards noted that although conversations around women’s participation in the maritime sector have continued to gain momentum globally, genuine progress can only be measured through deliberate actions that create opportunities for women across leadership, technical operations, logistics, shipping, marine tourism, energy, blue economy development and maritime governance.

The organisation stated that women have consistently demonstrated resilience, innovation and strategic leadership within the maritime and energy sectors, contributing significantly to institutional growth, sustainability and economic development.

It, however, stressed the need for increased representation of women in leadership positions, as well as expanded access to mentorship, capacity building and equal opportunities across the industry.

WIME Awards described recognition as a critical tool for transformation, noting that celebrating the achievements of women in maritime and energy helps to promote visibility, inspire future leaders and encourage inclusiveness within the sector.

Speaking on the 2026 theme, the Chairperson of the Trustee Board of Women in Maritime and Energy (WIME) Awards, Dr. Mrs. Chizoba Anyika, called on organisations and stakeholders to go beyond policy declarations by fully implementing gender inclusion and equity frameworks within their institutions.

According to her, sustainable progress in the maritime and energy sectors can only be achieved when organisations intentionally create enabling environments that support women’s professional growth and leadership development.

Dr. Anyika further emphasised that translating policies into measurable outcomes remains essential to building a more inclusive, innovative and globally competitive maritime industry.

“As an organisation committed to advocacy, empowerment and industry advancement, WIME Awards aligns with the IMO’s vision of promoting diversity and inclusion as drivers of maritime excellence,” she stated.

She added that the celebration should serve not only as recognition of achievements by women in the sector, but also as a renewed call to action for governments, institutions and professional bodies to invest in creating opportunities that enable women to participate, lead and excel.

WIME Awards reaffirmed its commitment to advancing gender equality and supporting the next generation of female leaders expected to shape the future of the maritime and energy sectors.