Hajia Habiba Yusifu, the Eastern Regional Agricultural Director, fervently advocates for gender equality and calls upon all Stakeholders, including the Government, Civil Society Organizations, and the Private Sector, to unite in fostering an enabling environment for women in food and agriculture.
Speaking at the 5th Women in Food and Agriculture Training Forum (WOFAGRIC) and Gold in the Soil Awards, held at the Bedtime Hotel in Koforidua from 26th to 27th July, Hajia Habiba Yusifu ,hailed the unwavering dedication and resilience of women in agriculture, acknowledging their pivotal role in the sector. From tilling the fields to nurturing livestock and crafting nutritious meals, women have consistently demonstrated their capabilities, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with their male counterparts and excelling in every aspect of the agricultural domain
Hajia Habiba Yusifu also shed light on the persistent gender disparities that hinder women’s progress in the field.such as limited access to crucial resources, funds , vital information, and transformative technologies poses significant challenges. She emphasized the need for collective action to break down these barriers, creating an inclusive and equitable environment that empowers women to thrive and realize their aspirations.
By embracing gender-responsive initiatives, the agricultural sector can cultivate a thriving landscape that nourishes food security, drives poverty reduction, and nurtures sustainable development, she added.
Key to this advocacy is the call for robust support mechanisms, including gender-responsive policies that recognize and honor the critical contributions of women in agriculture. By ensuring equitable access to resources, information, and technology, women can unleash their full potential, becoming catalysts for innovation, productivity, and sustainable development.
She also underscored the transformative impact of bridging the gender gap in agriculture. Such strides could pave the way for increased productivity, reduced hunger, and overall economic growth. Thus, she urged investment in education and training programs to equip women with the necessary knowledge and skills, bolstering their agricultural pursuits.
Beyond resource access, the Eastern Regional Agricultural Director passionately championed the active participation of women in decision-making processes at all levels. By amplifying their voices and considering their perspectives, agricultural policies and programs can become more comprehensive, effectively addressing the needs and aspirations of women in the field.
