News in brief:
– The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and its partners are reviewing the National Gender Policy to enhance women’s role in agriculture and ensure food security.
– The review aims to address gender-based challenges, improve resource access, and promote inclusive agricultural policies.
Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, in collaboration with the International Centre for Environmental Health and Development (ICEHD) and other stakeholders, has commenced a strategic review of the National Gender Policy on Agriculture. The initiative seeks to promote sustainable agricultural practices, empower farmers, and enhance food security across the country.
Speaking at a workshop held in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr Marcus Ogunbiyi, highlighted the need for the policy review, noting that its five-year lifespan had elapsed. Represented by the Director of Special Duties, Mrs Kachallah Damaturu, he stressed that since its launch on October 31, 2019, the policy has played a crucial role in addressing the unique challenges faced by rural women farmers, who form the backbone of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Collaboration for meaningful impact
Dr Ogunbiyi emphasised the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening the policy framework through partnerships with ICEHD, government agencies, civil society, and the private sector.
“We must recognise the importance of a collaborative approach. We will work closely with ICEHD, government and non-government organisations, civil society, and the private sector to ensure our efforts are complementary and effective,” he stated.
In her welcome address, Damaturu noted that the review process was not merely an administrative task but an opportunity to enhance women’s participation in agriculture. She emphasised the need to address barriers women face 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 said.
Women’s participation and systemic challenges
Delivering a goodwill message, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, Dr Maryam Keshinro, represented by the Director of Gender Affairs, Adamu Samaila Web, noted that the policy review was an opportunity to refine and strengthen the framework to address the evolving needs of women, men, and youths in the agricultural sector.
She underscored the importance of ensuring that the voices of those most affected by systemic inequalities are heard and their contributions recognised.
“This review is a call to action for all stakeholders—government, private sector, civil society, and development partners—to work collaboratively and purposefully towards translating the policy into impactful change,” she stated.
Key discussions and next steps
The workshop featured extensive deliberations by the National Gender Steering Committee, covering the policy review process, an overview of the existing policy, and an evaluation of its implementation so far. A key highlight was the presentation of findings from a situational analysis of gender-based violence in agri-food systems.
Participants included representatives from the National Council of Climate Change (NCCC), the Federal Ministry of Environment, women farmers’ associations and cooperatives, AGRA, Policy Innovation Centre, and Plan International, among others. The outcomes of the discussions are expected to shape the next phase of the policy’s implementation, ensuring a more inclusive and resilient agricultural sector in Nigeria.
