Agriculture remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, employing nearly 35% of the population. Yet, the sector faces mounting challenges, climate change, low productivity, and food insecurity. According to the FAO, over 116 million Nigerians experience some form of food insecurity. To address this crisis, empowering women farmers is not optional, it is essential.
Women
account for about 60-70% of the agricultural labor force in Nigeria, yet
they face systemic barriers, including limited access to land, credit, modern
inputs, and extension services. These constraints reduce productivity and
perpetuate poverty. At Rosana Empowerment Foundation (REF), we recognize
that the future of agriculture depends on closing this gender gap. Through our
advocacy and programmes, we support women farmers with capacity-building on
sustainable and climate-smart practices, such as organic farming, crop
diversification, and water-efficient irrigation.
REF
also promotes the use of low-cost technologies like improved seeds and
solar-powered dryers to minimize post-harvest losses. By training women in
these techniques, we ensure they can adapt to climate change while boosting
yields and income. Recently, REF worked with rural women cooperatives in Bauchi,
Gombe and Imo States to introduce bio-fertilizers and composting techniques,
reducing dependence on costly chemical inputs and restoring soil health.
The
benefits go beyond farming. When women farmers earn more, household nutrition
improves, children stay in school, and communities thrive. Evidence shows that
if women had equal access to resources as men, agricultural output in
developing countries could increase by up to 30%, significantly reducing
hunger.
To achieve food security, we must prioritize:
- Gender-responsive agricultural
policies that give women access to land
and credit.
- Training in climate-smart
agriculture for resilience against extreme
weather.
- Strengthening women’s
cooperatives for better market access and
bargaining power.
Women
farmers are not just labourers, they are innovators and change-makers. By
investing in them, Nigeria can secure a future where no one goes hungry.
#FoodSecurity
#WomenInAgriculture #ClimateSmartFarming #REFImpact #EndHunger
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