Liberia’s Maritime Authority is charting a course towards a more equitable and inclusive maritime sector, recognizing the vital role of women in its growth and sustainability. During the International Day for Women in Maritime 2025, celebrated under the theme “An Ocean of Opportunities for Women,” Commissioner/CEO Neto Zarzar Lighe Sr. emphasized the need for accelerated progress in achieving gender equity, moving beyond rhetoric to concrete action and measurable change. He underscored that gender equity isn’t solely a women’s issue but a human imperative, recognizing that the elevation of women benefits the entire maritime ecosystem. He highlighted the inherent human traits of strength, vastness, and bravery that define the maritime world, qualities that transcend gender, asserting that discrimination has no place in the vast ocean or within the industry itself. Liberia, with its rich maritime history, aims to build a legacy that embraces the contributions of all its citizens, including and especially women.
The Liberia Maritime Authority is implementing tangible initiatives to promote gender diversity throughout the maritime sector. These include targeted scholarships and mentorship programs for women at the Liberia Maritime Training Institute (LMTI), along with dedicated accommodations to facilitate their participation. Collaborations with the Women in Maritime West and Central Africa (WIMOWCA) Liberia Chapter and other stakeholders are aimed at not only providing women with a seat at the table, but also ensuring their voices are heard and respected within the decision-making processes. The Authority is committed to mainstreaming gender considerations into all its policies and leadership structures, ensuring that equity becomes an integral part of recruitment, training, and promotion practices, not as a concession, but as a strategic necessity for sustained growth and progress within the maritime industry.
Despite significant strides, the Commissioner/CEO acknowledges the persistent challenges women face in the maritime field, including pay disparities, underrepresentation in leadership positions, and deeply ingrained stereotypes. He commended the resilience and excellence of Liberian women in maritime, from cadets and engineers to port managers and maritime lawyers, who consistently break down barriers not for accolades, but for purpose and advancement. Addressing women seafarers and those working ashore, he affirmed the visibility of their courage and the essential nature of their leadership. Furthermore, he extended an encouraging message to young girls in Liberia and beyond, emphasizing their inherent belonging in the maritime world and highlighting their potential to become future captains, architects, and champions of the industry.
Commissioner/CEO Lighe reiterated the Liberia Maritime Authority’s steadfast commitment to enforcing equal pay for equal work, ensuring merit-based leadership appointments, and expanding access to opportunities, including scholarships and training, for women and girls across Liberia. He believes that the path towards a truly inclusive maritime future requires active participation from every member of society, regardless of gender. He stressed that no vessel can successfully complete its voyage, and no victory can be fully celebrated without the invaluable contributions of women. This commitment reflects a broader recognition within the maritime industry that diversity and inclusivity are not just ethical imperatives, but essential elements for achieving sustainable growth and operational excellence.
The Liberia Maritime Authority’s vision for a gender-equitable maritime sector is not merely a symbolic gesture but a strategic imperative. By investing in women, the Authority recognizes the untapped potential and immense contributions they bring to the industry. The focus on targeted scholarships, mentorship programs, and partnerships demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing the historical underrepresentation of women. Furthermore, the commitment to integrating gender considerations into all policies and leadership structures underscores the Authority’s determination to foster a genuinely inclusive environment where women not only have a seat at the table but also possess the power to shape the future of the maritime sector.
The challenges faced by women in the maritime industry are deeply rooted and require sustained effort to overcome. The Liberia Maritime Authority’s acknowledgment of these obstacles, combined with its committed actions towards addressing them, signifies a significant step forward. By promoting equal pay, merit-based leadership appointments, and increased access to opportunities, the Authority aims to create a level playing field where women can thrive and contribute their full potential. The message to young girls, emphasizing their belonging and future possibilities within the maritime world, is crucial for cultivating the next generation of maritime leaders. This comprehensive strategy, coupled with the Authority’s unwavering commitment, promises a brighter and more equitable future for women in Liberia’s maritime sector.
