The changing face of the maritime industry

Oshoveli Kashume



My name is Oshoveli Kashume. I am currently employed by Erongo Marine Enterprises and I serve on the Desert Ruby fishing vessel as third mate or third navigation officer.

Erongo Marine Enterprises is based in Walvis Bay and is one of the leading horse mackerel fishing companies in Namibia. The company operates two Namibian-flagged, midwater trawlers, the Desert Ruby and Desert Jewel. I am really proud to be among the few females in the country to work on such a large vessel.

After completing my schooling, I enrolled at the University of Namibia (Unam) and studied towards a bachelor of science, majoring in mathematics and science. However, due to financial constraints, I had to leave after the first year.

I was among 500 applicants who responded to an advertisement by Erongo Marine Enterprises for trainee positions.

After undergoing several tests, I was one of the eight successful candidates.

Erongo Marine's main purpose for this cadetship programme was to transfer expertise from foreign to local crew members.

As a cadet, I served my sea-time working in all departments of the fishing vessel.

This ranged from working in the onboard factory, working on the deck with the bosun and at times also in the galley.

After acquiring enough sea-time, I was enrolled at Project Maritime Training in Saldanha Bay where I obtained my navigation watchkeepers’ ticket for fishing vessels. I was then promoted to fourth navigation officer and seven years later to third navigation officer.

As a female working in a male-dominated industry, "this isn't a place for women" was a common saying.

Thanks to Erongo Marine's commitment to promote a diverse and inclusive workforce, I have managed to overcome all the challenges that came my way.

I enjoy working at sea and would like to encourage other females willing to enter the maritime industry to always believe in themselves and all that they are.

Know that times are changing. The world is recognising our role as women in the maritime industry.

Testimony to this is this year’s theme for World Maritime Day, celebrated yesterday, which is ‘Empowering Women in the Maritime Community’.

This puts the spotlight on the importance of gender equality and the contribution of women within the maritime sector.

There's nothing I've encountered that a woman cannot do. This type of life takes a lot of commitment and determination, but nothing is impossible if you set yourself clear goals and commit yourself to achieving them. Always be eager and willing to learn and never give up; even though the going gets tough.