Libreville, Gabon — A three-day regional seminar for women professionals in the port and maritime sector opened in Libreville, Republic of Gabon, bringing together participants from across West and Central Africa to examine the growing role of artificial intelligence in port management and maritime security.
The seminar, held from July 20–22, 2026, was organized by the General Secretariat of the Port Management Association of West and Central Africa in coordination with the Port Women Network for West and Central Africa.
Held under the theme, “Challenges and Opportunities of the Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Port Management and Maritime Security,” the seminar explores the impact of emerging technologies on the future of port operations and the maritime industry.
Discussions are structured around eight thematic areas covering the technological evolution of ports, logistics, predictive maintenance, maritime safety, energy efficiency, digital data management and emerging opportunities for women within the maritime and port sector.
The seminar comes at a time of significant technological transformation within the global maritime industry, with artificial intelligence increasingly being applied to improve efficiency, strengthen security, enhance decision-making and support the development of smarter and more resilient ports.
Particular attention is also being given to the role of women in this transformation and the opportunities created by digital technologies for greater participation in technical, operational and decision-making positions across the maritime sector.
NPA Represented by Five Female Professionals
The National Port Authority of Liberia is represented at the regional seminar by five members of Port Women Navigating Excellence.
The NPA delegation comprises:
- Esther K. Nmah — Executive Director, Port State Coordination
- Lt. Col. Nancy Kreyoh — Deputy Director for Operations/ISPS
- Lt. Col. Janet S. Kortu — Deputy Director for Administration, Liberia Sea Port Police
- Philomina Fata David — Senior Director for Administration
- Ophelia Dosso — Director, Governmental and International Affairs
Their participation underscores the National Port Authority’s commitment to professional development, regional cooperation and the advancement of women in Liberia’s maritime and port sector.
The 2026 seminar is designed to raise awareness and equip women professionals with the knowledge and skills required to respond effectively to changes being introduced by artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies within their respective professions.
Participants are also expected to develop practical recommendations for port authorities on how artificial intelligence can be responsibly integrated into port management, maritime security and related operations while expanding opportunities for women across the sector.
At the conclusion of the seminar, recommendations from the deliberations will be submitted to the Secretary General and participating Directors General for consideration, follow-up and possible implementation.
The NPA’s participation in the seminar reflects the Authority’s broader commitment to innovation, capacity building, gender inclusion and continued engagement with regional maritime institutions as Liberia works to modernize its port sector.
