Betty Mutugi Elected Unopposed to Lead Kenya's Women in Maritime Association

Betty Mutugi, a Kenyan ship inspector, has been elected unopposed as the new chairperson of the Womesa Kenya chapter. The organisation, which supports women in maritime roles, also appointed three other officials during the recent vote.

Mutugi takes over from Winnie Maina, whose term has now ended. Her election has been described as a key moment for gender equality in the industry.

Womesa was established in 2007 as a regional network under the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). It focuses on empowering women in maritime careers across Eastern and Southern Africa. The group's core mission includes advocating for gender equality and providing professional support to its members.

Mutugi, who works with the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), has outlined her priorities for the role. She aims to strengthen the association by fostering unity, increasing member engagement, and promoting professional development.

Alongside Mutugi, Aisha Mwazuzu was elected vice chairlady, while advocate Caren Kulola will serve as treasurer. Adelaide Wangira takes on the role of secretary. Andrew Mwangura, an independent maritime consultant, praised Mutugi's appointment as a major step forward for gender equity in the sector.

Originally formed as an IMO programme, Womesa helps integrate women into maritime professions. However, no countries along the western Indian Ocean are currently listed as members, and no recent initiatives by the organisation in those regions have been recorded in the past five years.

Mutugi's leadership will focus on expanding Womesa's influence and supporting its members. The newly elected team now faces the task of driving the association's goals in Eastern and Southern Africa. Their efforts will shape the future of women's participation in the maritime industry across the region.