An organisation called Women in Logistics and Transport (WiLAT) Namibia aims to promote the industry to female members and to encourage and support their career development. WiLAT was formed in June 2013 within the Charter of International Logistics and Transport (CILT) Territorial Organisations and Branches.
On 29 November 2022, the Walvis Bay Corridor Group (WBCG) successfully hosted the first breakfast meeting for WiLAT Namibia at a local restaurant in Windhoek.
The objective of the meeting was to introduce the association to the female employees and entrepreneurs within the transport and logistics industry, to share information about affiliate organisations as well as discuss the opportunities and benefits that accrue from WiLAT membership.
The meeting was attended by Margaret Bango, the president of WiLAT, South Africa who delivered the keynote address. Other speakers included Hileni Tjivikua, the Chief Executive Officer of the Automobile Association of Namibia (AA) and Prisca Mayumbelo from PM Roads & Transport and president of CILT Namibia, who delivered presentations. The meeting was also attended by various women from different organisations within the transport and logistics industry.
In her keynote address, Bango highlighted that WiLAT is a forum within CILT International whose membership is voluntary for women working within the transport and logistics industry. Members join the organisation voluntarily, and the main membership benefit is the achievement of internationally accredited training.
“WiLAT’s objectives are to increase the number of women and young entrepreneurs participation in the industry, and to support their career development at work and within their businesses, in order to create employment opportunities across the country and reduce unemployment,” Bango stressed.
Furthermore, she encouraged women who attended the session to join the network once the Namibian charter has been launched.
Meanwhile, Tjivikua who delivered a presentation on behalf of the Women in Road Safety, made the following remarks; “Women are regarded as ‘safer’ drivers and less likely to be in a road accident and known to be more vulnerable by most criminals. Women are also influential and as such are uniquely equipped to use this power to change behaviour, in an encouraging and positive approach as part of individual pledges to road safety.”
According to Mayumbelo, CILT is a global family, representing professionals at all levels across all sectors, with a mission to provide individuals and organisations access to the tools, knowledge and connections vital to success in the logistics & transport industry.
The WiLAT Namibia Charter is envisaged to be launched early next year, where detailed information, including fee structures and membership benefits will be shared.