For decades, the maritime industry was predominantly male-dominated, with women often relegated to behind-the-scenes roles..
But credit where credit is due.. Today, Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) proudly employs 536 women across various marine operation roles, including aviation, vessel traffic control, marine engineering, pilotage, and berthing..
The statistics of maritime operational personnel shared by Transnet National Ports Authority paint a powerful picture of progress, one that goes beyond representation and speaks to trust, skill, and transformation across South Africa’s ports..
“Transnet National Ports Authority’s tug fleet is the heartbeat of port operations – and behind every successful vessel movement is a crew that does not just operate together, but trains, mentors, and uplifts each other daily.” said Transnet National Port Authority..
- At a national level, 39% of TNPA’s tug crew are women, steering vessels with precision and professionalism..
- The Port of Richards Bay proudly leads the way with a remarkable 62% female tug crew—the highest in the country.. These women are part of a 92-strong team of tug masters working across South Africa’s commercial seaports, ensuring vessels are safely maneuvered, berthed, and dispatched with precision.
- East London is close behind, where half the tug crew—50%—are women, helping shape a culture of balance and capability..
- In Saldanha Bay, 44% of the tug crew are women, confidently guiding some of the world’s largest ore carriers with strength and precision..
- The bustling Port of Durban counts on a 42% female tug crew, a powerful reminder that size and scale are no barrier to inclusive excellence..
- Cape Town, with 35% of its tug crew being women, reflects steady and meaningful progress in one of the nation’s busiest harbours
- Even in Ngqura, where the female crew currently stands at 11%, the tides of transformation are clearly on the rise
Together, these numbers reflect more than just inclusion—they reflect trust in talent, opportunity in motion, and a sector that’s truly starting to look like the world it serves..
This shift signifies a transformative era where women are not only participating but leading in critical maritime operations..
TNPA’s commitment to gender inclusivity extends beyond numbers. The organization invests in skills development, creating new opportunities for women in specialized maritime roles, like in the port aviation space..
Kim Watchurst, Chief Helicopter Pilot at the Port of Durban, is one of just a handful of female aviation pilots certified to help guide some of the world’s largest vessels docking and sailing into South Africa’s waters, often in unpredictable conditions..
These advancements align with the International Maritime Organization’s 2025 theme: “An Ocean of Opportunities for Women,” emphasizing the importance of gender representation in the maritime sector..
TNPA’s transformation is not just a policy but a lived reality, with women leading from the frontline of South Africa’s ports. Their strength, skill, and teamwork are shaping a new standard of excellence, ensuring that the tides of transformation continue to rise..
Kudos to Transnet National Port Authority on these achievements and wishing them more..
For more information, visit Transnet National Ports Authority.
