-
A container is loaded onto a cargo ship while docked at Hai Phong port.
In a significant step towards promoting gender equality, Transnet is celebrating Women’s Month by having an all-female shift load a cargo vessel of over 25,000 tonnes in the Richards Bay Port.
This highlights the growing presence of women in the maritime industry, which has traditionally been male-dominated.
This Transnet Port Terminal is crucial as it connects South Africa to the global trade in exporting minerals. It is widely recognised as the country’s premier bulk port and is operational 24 hours, with highly skilled engineers, machine operators and artisans working tirelessly.
Thuli Bukhosini, a 32-year-old from Mtubatuba, has been working as a machine operator since 2018, handling the cargo operations at one of the world’s leading coal export terminals.
She operates and drives a 32-tonne forklift, moving minerals and commodities in the port from trucks to industrial storage sites.
She says the high-tech equipment is a key factor in its efficiency of moving cargo volumes.
Bukhosini says although the industry is historically a male-dominated one, many women are breaking barriers and even managing operations.
Another woman taking the lead is Mbalenhle Jiyale, the operations manager, who oversees the sophisticated network of conveyor belts that extends over 40 kilometres, connecting the quayside to industrial facilities.
She says her role and what she does is a lot of hard work, since she has to be alert because her team needs her to make decisions and manage the cargo.
The Transnet National Ports Authority says gender transformation has improved over the years, showcasing the capability of females in the sector.
The Ports Authority says women have contributed significantly to improving the operations at the Port as diesel mechanics, millwrights, and other artisans, emphasising their role in keeping port equipment running smoothly.
WATCH: Highlighting role of women in maritime industry
From Maydon Wharf Agri Terminal , Thobeka Dladla shares a heartfelt message to all the incredible women of TPT and beyond. This Women’s Month, she reminds us to keep leading, fixing, and inspiring. #TPTWomensMonth #DurbanTerminals pic.twitter.com/3VhKYZkKEr
— Transnet Port Terminals (@TPT_Transnet) August 25, 2025