From navigating massive vessels through ports to transforming freight logistics and shaping maritime policy, African women are steadily rising in one of the world’s most traditionally male-dominated industries.
With grit, expertise, and bold leadership, these trailblazing entrepreneurs and professionals are anchoring Africa’s presence in global trade, port operations, marine navigation, and ocean-based economies.
Whether charting new waters in port piloting, pioneering offshore logistics hubs, or championing regulatory reform, these five women are making waves—literally and figuratively—in Africa’s shipping and maritime sector.
1. Jennifer Mwijukye (Uganda)
Founder and CEO of Unifreight Group, Jennifer built a leading freight forwarding business from the ground up. A board chair of the Uganda Women Entrepreneurs Association, she holds a master’s in Transport Economics & Logistics. She’s received multiple awards—from CEO Global to MTN’s CEO of the Year—for her transformative role in Uganda’s logistics sector.
2. Amy Jadesimi (Nigeria)
As CEO of the Lagos Deep Offshore Logistics Base (LADOL), Amy leads Nigeria’s premier engineering and logistics hub within the Port of Lagos. A physician-turned-entrepreneur with an MBA from Stanford and Oxford training, she oversees a critical facility for maritime repair, logistics, and industrial services.
3. Nkopuyo “Pilot November 1” Abraham (Nigeria)
One of Nigeria’s first female marine pilots, Nkopuyo has safely guided over 2,000 vessels into port under the Nigerian Ports Authority. With advanced nautical training from Nigeria, South Africa, and the UK, she’s been honored with multiple maritime and logistics awards, including the WILAT Outstanding Role Model award.
4. Thembelihle Shangase (South Africa)
A harbour pilot at Durban’s major port, Thembelihle navigates large vessels through complex entry and exit maneuvers daily. Her success in a male-dominated role—highlighted by Freight News—underscores her unwavering calm and skill in high-pressure maritime operations.
5. Nancy Karigithu (Kenya)
With a master’s in International Maritime Law, Nancy serves as Principal Secretary for Shipping & Maritime in Kenya’s Ministry of Transport. A former Director-General at the Kenya Maritime Authority, she has also championed IMO guidelines and women’s participation across Africa’s maritime sector.
Image Credit: Transport Day Newspaper
