From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, in collaboration with the International Centre for Environmental Health and Development (ICEHD) and other stakeholders, has initiated the review of the National Gender Policy on Agriculture to promote sustainable agricultural practices, empower farmers, and enhance food security in the country.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja by Mrs. Eremah Anthonia, Chief Information Officer for the Director of Information in the Ministry.
Speaking at a workshop recently held at the Royalton Hotel, Abuja, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, FNSE, represented by the Director of Special Duties, Mrs. Kachallah Damaturu, stated that the review was necessary as the policy had reached the end of its five-year lifespan.
Dr. Ogunbiyi noted that since its launch on October 31, 2019, the National Gender Policy on Agriculture has played a crucial role in addressing the unique challenges faced by rural women farmers, who form the backbone of the agricultural sector.
He emphasized that the Ministry’s mission aligns with ICEHD’s goals, underscoring the importance of collaboration in achieving meaningful change.
“We must recognize the importance of a collaborative approach. We will work closely with ICEHD, government and non-governmental organizations, civil society, and the private sector to ensure our efforts are complementary and effective,” Ogunbiyi stated.
In her welcome address, Mrs. Kachallah Damaturu stressed that reviewing the policy is not merely an administrative exercise but an opportunity to enhance women’s participation in agriculture, address existing barriers, and ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities.
“We seek to identify gaps in our current policy framework and explore innovative strategies that can empower women in agriculture. Your contributions are invaluable as we strive for a more inclusive agricultural landscape,” she added.
Delivering a goodwill message, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, Dr. Maryam Keshinro, represented by Director of Gender Affairs, Adamu Samaila Web, highlighted the importance of refining the policy to reflect the evolving needs of women, men, and youths in the agricultural sector.
She stressed that the review presents an opportunity to amplify the voices of those most affected by systemic inequalities and ensure their contributions are recognized.
She also called for collective action among stakeholders, including the government, private sector, civil society, and development partners, to translate the policy into tangible and impactful change.
The event featured discussions by the National Gender Steering Committee on the policy review process, an overview of the existing policy, progress on policy implementation, and a presentation of findings on gender-based violence in agrifood systems.
It was attended by representatives from the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), the Federal Ministry of Environment, women farmers’ associations and cooperatives, AGRA, the Policy Innovation Centre, Plan International, and other key stakeholders.
