Page 19 - Logistics Update Africa March - April 2024 issue for Website

While comprehensive data remains
elusive, available statistics paint a picture of
an industry undergoing a shift. According
to the International Labour Organization
(ILO), globally, women make up only 24%
of the core logistics workforce. However,
Africa seems to be bucking this trend.
According to a report by the
International Finance Corporation (IFC),
women comprise 30% of the logistics
workforce in some African countries.
The increasing presence of women is
noticeable across different facets of the
logistics industry. They are leaving their
mark in freight forwarding, warehousing,
supply chain management, and even in
traditionally male-dominated sectors like
transportation. While administrative
and customer service roles remain
typical starting points, more women
are now aiming for leadership roles and
technical proficiency.
However, the path to progress for
women in African logistics isn't without
obstacles. Unconscious bias remains a
persistent hurdle. Traditional gender roles
can create an invisible barrier, making it
difficult for women to secure promotions or
gain the respect of their peers in leadership
positions. Additionally, a lack of training
and mentorship opportunities can hinder
career advancement. This is especially true
for women who lack formal education
specific to logistics. The demanding nature
of the field, often characterised by long
hours and inflexible schedules, presents
another significant challenge. This can
be particularly burdensome for women
juggling work and family responsibilities.
These factors combine to create a complex
landscape that women in African logistics
must navigate.
The winds of change are sweeping
across the African logistics landscape,
and women are at the forefront of this
transformation. While challenges remain,
several innovative initiatives by African
companies and organisations are creating a
more welcoming environment for women
to soar in this dynamic industry.
For example, WILA, or Women
in Logistics Africa is a pan-African
organisation dedicated to achieving
gender equality in the continent's supply
chain and logistics industry. Their
primary focus is on increasing female
representation, particularly in leadership
positions. WILA tackles this challenge

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MARCH - APRIL 2024 LUA