Women in agriculture are crucial in the food systems of the globe as producers, laborers, processors, sellers, traders, and consumers. They play significant roles in enhancing food and nutrition security but still experience numerous constraints that prevent them from contributing to agriculture effectively. They have inadequate access to land, significant inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, technology, and credit, minimal market opportunities, and are frequently excluded from decision-making. Gender disparities and discriminatory norms worsen these, leading to women's work being undervalued and, in some cases, ignored.

Global initiatives towards empowering women in food systems

The CGIAR Gender Equality and Inclusion (GEI) Accelerator, African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD), the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), and CIFOR-ICRAF knew that there was a need for change. They gathered influential people like policymakers, entrepreneurs, and scientists to commemorate the role of women in agriculture. The conference focused on actual actions to solve gender inequalities and promote inclusive development.

African Women in Agrifood Systems

Appolinaire Djikeng, ILRI Director General, pointed out how central women are to Africa's food systems. He invited all on board to step beyond statistics and actually work to bridge gender gaps. "We shouldn't talk of world numbers of the empowerment of women; we must know the numbers, relate them to what happens in our lives, and point out where there are gaps so that we can close the gaps. We are empowered by the empowerment of women," he noted.

One of the main focuses of the conference was the forthcoming report on the "Status of Women in African Agrifood Systems in Sub-Saharan Africa." The extensive research delves into the status of women in agriculture, showing long-standing gender disparities and offering solutions to the disparities.

Addressing Gender Inequities in Agriculture

Dr. Susan Kaaria, Director of AWARD, explained that it is extremely crucial that everyone has equal access to assets, resources, and services in agrifood systems. "The second report on women in Sub-Saharan Africa agrifood systems indicates that women are underrepresented in research and leadership. We must find ways of increasing their participation," explained Dr. Kaaria.

Dr. Nicoline de Haan, CGIAR GEI Accelerator Director, further stated that we must cease only thinking about problems and begin to implement real solutions. "It is time to go beyond problems and think of solutions. As we adopt gender-transformative methods, we can increase women's access and develop a world in which norms, agency, and power are freely discussed and allocated equally," she added.

Aspiring towards Equitable and Sustainable Food Systems

The event also brought to light programs that are already working, such as mentorship programs, leadership development, and increased access to land and finance. These programs are breaking down barriers and enabling women to thrive in agriculture.

Dr. Éliane Ubalijoro, the CEO of CIFOR-ICRAF, called attention to observing and appreciating what women do towards food security and science. "We must recognize the contribution of women in science and food security, especially women smallholders. What we do as a group helps feed people," she insisted.

Conclusion

Women play a highly important role in food systems but continue to face many challenges. Policymakers, institutions, and business leaders must unite to address the imbalances and inequalities and build equal and sustainable agrifood systems. With efforts to combat imbalances and make concrete steps, women in agriculture can be adequately empowered to be a powerful force in agricultural innovation and food security globally.