AGL Marks International Women’s Day with Call for Inclusion

By Mackie M. Jalloh

(232news)

Employees of Africa Global Logistics (AGL) in Sierra Leone gathered on Friday, March 6, 2026, at the company’s Freetown Terminal Limited (FTL) facility to commemorate International Women’s Day, using the occasion to spotlight the contributions of women within the logistics and maritime industry—sectors traditionally dominated by men.

The event, held under the theme “Give to Gain,” brought together management staff, employees, and invited guests to reflect on the importance of investing in women’s growth and leadership within the workplace. Organizers said the theme was chosen to highlight how support, mentorship, and opportunity can unlock greater productivity and innovation across organizations.

Delivering the opening remarks, Head of Human Resources Yvonne Elliott welcomed participants and praised the resilience and commitment demonstrated by women working across AGL’s operations. She noted that the celebration was not merely symbolic but an opportunity to reaffirm the company’s commitment to building a workplace culture where women can thrive professionally.

“Our organization recognizes that empowering women strengthens institutions,” Elliott said. “When women are supported, given opportunities, and encouraged to lead, the entire organization benefits from their creativity, insight, and dedication.”

The General Manager of AGL Sierra Leone, Maroun Abi Aad, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that inclusion and collaboration remain central to the company’s corporate values. According to him, the theme “Give to Gain” captures the spirit of teamwork that drives progress within the organization.

“When we invest in people—by giving mentorship, trust, and respect—we gain stronger teams and better results,” he said. “The women working within our organization continue to demonstrate leadership, professionalism, and determination that contribute immensely to our success.”

Also speaking at the event was AGL’s Chief Financial Officer, Fatimatou-Keita Bah, who recently assumed her role in Freetown after more than a decade of experience within the company’s global operations. She described the celebration as especially meaningful in an industry where women often have to work harder to prove their capabilities.

“Being here reminds me that women bring more than just technical skills to the workplace,” Bah said. “We bring resilience, empathy, trust, and the ability to uplift others. These qualities strengthen organizations and create environments where everyone can succeed.”

She also acknowledged the collaborative role played by male colleagues, noting that gender equality can only be achieved through partnership and mutual respect.

The event featured a motivational address from guest speaker Salamatu B Kamara, a respected entrepreneur and women’s advocate. Sharing her personal journey, Kamara recounted the challenges she faced while pursuing education and financial independence, explaining how she sold soap as a schoolgirl to support her studies before later learning tailoring and eventually building a successful fashion business in Freetown.

Her message to the audience centered on perseverance, faith, and integrity. She encouraged women to believe in their abilities, work diligently, and remain guided by strong values.

“Success comes when we add value before expecting rewards,” she told participants. “Women must pursue their goals wholeheartedly and remember that determination and character are powerful tools for transformation.”

Employees also shared reflections during the program, highlighting the contributions of women working in technical roles, including workshops and operational departments where they continue to break barriers.

The gathering concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by company representatives, who reaffirmed AGL’s commitment to gender equality, professional development, and creating opportunities for women across all levels of the organization. Organizers described the celebration as both a recognition of achievements and a renewed pledge to ensure that women’s voices and talents remain central to the company’s future growth.