Suriname viert tien jaar Women in Maritime Caribbean: Focus op gelijke kansen

From November 3 to 5, 2025, Suriname proudly hosted the regional workshop and general assembly of the Women in Maritime Association, Caribbean (WiMAC). Organized by the Maritime Authority Suriname (MAS), the event brought together representatives from across the Caribbean to strengthen collaboration and advance the role of women in the maritime industry. The opening ceremony, held at Hotel Torarica, also celebrated WiMAC’s 10th anniversary under the theme ‘LeadHERship: WiMAC 10 Years Strong! Looking Ahead, Sailing Forward,’ emphasizing leadership and equal opportunities for women in the maritime world. Minister Raymond Landveld of Transport, Communication, and Tourism (TCT) commended the contributions of women in the sector and highlighted the government’s commitment to gender equality, particularly in technical and maritime professions. He noted the increasing number of female students in maritime training programs as evidence of Suriname’s progress in women’s empowerment. Currently, MAS employs 32 women in various roles, and the WiMAC Suriname Chapter has 34 female maritime professionals. Chairperson Marita Kramp emphasized the organization’s focus on creating opportunities for women to grow, receive training, and work in a safe and supportive environment. She also stressed Suriname’s obligation to implement gender equality policies as a signatory to international treaties. The three-day workshop addressed challenges and opportunities in the regional maritime sector, underscoring MAS’s commitment to inclusion and equal opportunities for women in Suriname’s maritime industry.