Page 20 - Logistics Update Africa March - April 2024 issue for Website

SPECIAL REPORT

through a multi-pronged approach. in leadership roles within the air logistics
They lobby for inclusive practices within sector. These initiatives are offered by
logistics companies, creating a more the African Centre for Aviation (AFCA).
welcoming environment for women. Additionally, tailored training programmes
Additionally, they bridge the gap in airport operations and cargo
between experienced and aspiring female handling, specifically designed for female
professionals by facilitating mentorship professionals, are provided by organisations
programmes and networking events. Our 2024 perspectives like the Airport Council International
WILA also collaborates with educational (ACI) Africa.
institutions to develop skill-building are focused on our The mentorship programme by
programmes specifically tailored for commitments to Women in Aviation and Logistics Africa
women in logistics. women and youth. We (WIAL) connects experienced women
“Our 2024 perspectives are focused on in air cargo with aspiring professionals.
our commitments to women and youth. will continue to pursue These mentorship programmes provide
Training, mentoring, masterclasses, and our mission. guidance, career advice, and a valuable
community solidarity have proven their support network for women navigating the
worth to WILA's growth. We will continue to CHRISTIANE OHIN-TRAORE complexities of the air cargo industry.
WILA
pursue our mission,” says Christiane Ohin- The International Air Transport
Traore, the founding president of WILA. Association (IATA) aims to increase the
Agility, a leading global logistics number of women in senior positions
company with a strong presence in Africa within the aviation industry by 2025
is supporting the WILA mentorship through its "25by2025" diversity and
programme. Emirati multinational inclusion initiative. “Through our
logistics company DP World which has participation in the 25by2025 initiative,
also a significant presence in Africa and we want to make a statement as the sector
has partnered with WILA to promote leader, even though we have already
women’s leadership and development in reached or even exceeded the goals of
the logistics sector in Africa. Over the next five 25by2025 in some areas,” says Racheal
One of the most significant challenges Ndegwa, Chief Executive Officer at
women face in logistics is entering years, we aim Swissport Kenya Limited. Swissport’s
traditionally male-dominated areas like to increase the management team in Kenya comprises 39%
transportation. However, recognising share of women in females, while in Ghana it is 25%, in South
the power of the women's community, Africa, it is 43%. Additionally, local female
Kenya established the Women in Trucking management to 40%. CEOs have been appointed in Algeria,
Association (WITA). This organisation RACHEAL NDEGWA Kenya, and South Africa, with the Kenya
provides a vital support network for SWISSPORT CEO complementing the 32% of female
female truck drivers. WITA offers training employees in the cargo business.
programmes, mentorship opportunities, Another prime example highlighted by According to a report, the African
and a platform for women to share Supply Chain Africa is Josephine Nyebaza, logistics market is expected to reach $44.8
experiences and advocate for their rights. who founded Intra Cargo, a successful billion by 2027, creating a significant
Women today are increasingly freight forwarding company in Rwanda. demand for talent. This provides a chance
launching logistics businesses across She also chairs the Women in Logistics in for women to enter and rise within the
Africa. This suggests a growing interest Rwanda under The Chartered Institute of industry. The rise of automation and
and potential for leadership roles. Ladybird Logistics and Transport (CILT). digitization in logistics is creating new
Logistics is Ghana’s first female-only In air cargo logistics also women are roles that are less reliant on physical
logistics firm, founded by Felicia Marfo. bringing strong leadership to the table, strength, traditionally a perceived barrier.
Marfo isn't just a leader in logistics, she's Specialised training programmes in air This opens doors for women with strong
a trailblazer for women in the field. The cargo management, data analytics, and problem-solving and analytical skills, of
company not only set up the first female- regulatory compliance are empowering course, challenges persist but ensuring
only logistics firm but also provided women with the expertise needed to excel equal access to education and promoting
training for women to become globally flexible work arrangements are crucial for
certified truck drivers, contributing to long-term progress.
closing the gender gap in the supply chain. Overall, the future for women in
At present, she is working as Chief Vision African logistics is bright. With continued
Officer at Premier Solutions Limited (PSL). efforts to dismantle barriers and leverage
In a quote to Supply Chain Africa Marfo the power of technology, the industry is
embodies the belief that "When more poised to benefit from a more diverse and
women work, economies grow". talented workforce.

18 LUA MARCH - APRIL 2024