A panel of leaders in women’s empowerment and agriculture, have raised critical concerns impacting rural women farmers in the country.
They raise the concerns during the Women’s Empowerment and Agribusiness webinar organised by HortiNigeria, in partnership with SWIS Africa as part of the 2024 International Day of Rural Women celebrations.
The webinar aimed at exploring strategies to spark investment opportunities for rural communities and promote financial inclusion, modern farming techniques, as well as the empowerment of rural women in agriculture.
The event also highlighted how these measures could create a lasting impact on rural women’s livelihoods.
The theme for the International Day of Rural Women 2024 is: ”Good Food for All, for today and tomorrow”.
Aisha Ahmed, leader of the Hanwa Taimako Women and Multipurpose Society, emphasised the importance of growing profitable crops like vegetables, which she said could provide food security and higher profits for women.
“We encourage women to farm more vegetables rather than traditional grains,” she stated.
She noted that many women do not have access to land, and high rental costs, combined with insecurity in certain areas, which hinders their agricultural opportunities.
Also, Olamide Alao-Akala, Chief Executive Officer, UmeRa Farm, discussed the challenges women face when starting agribusinesses, citing a lack of education and resources.
“Many women start businesses but struggle to sustain them due to a lack of education and resources,” Alao-Akala said.
In the same vein, Dr Zainab Gwadabe, Chief Executive Officer, Seed Projects Co. Ltd., joining from the World Food Forum 2024 in Rome, underscored the role of quality seeds in addressing food security challenges.
“High-quality seeds are essential for improving agricultural yields and nutrition,” she noted.
Speaking on financial inclusion, Mrs Olajumoke Daramola from Women’s World Banking, advocated for women-centered financial solutions.
“Recognising and investing in women’s financial inclusion is essential for sustainable development, additionally, tailored financial products could drive adoption and empowerment,” she said
Tolulope Aina, a mentor and entrepreneur, stressed the importance of mentorship in agribusiness.
“Mentorship should be action-oriented and provide a safe space for learning,” she remarked.
The panelists also discussed other challenges facing rural women, including limited access to funds, technological barriers, and insecurity.
