Transnet National Ports Authority appoints first female chief executive

Shulami Qalinge has become the first woman to be appointed chief executive at Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), succeeding Richard Vallihu who has been appointed group executive of operational readiness at Transnet Corporate Centre.

The company said in a statement:  “The appointment is of significance for an organisation that prides itself on its advancement of women in the male dominated maritime industry. 50% of TNPA’s executive committee is made up of females, while women can be found across the organisation in operational roles previously reserved for men.”

Qalinge, who will oversee the operation of eight commercial ports with more than 3,500 employees, will be responsible for hitting growth targets and complying with the National Ports Act 12 of 2005