FG, stakeholders strategise to review national gender policy on agriculture

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, International Centre for Environmental Health and Development, ICEHD, and other stakeholders have strategised to review the National Gender Policy on Agriculture to promote sustainable agricultural practices, empower farmers and enhance food security.

Speaking during the workshop in Abuja, recently, Marcus Ogunbiyi, the permanent secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, represented by Director Special Duties, Kachallah Damaturu, said the essence of the meeting was to review the National Gender Policy on Agriculture, which was due, having spent five (5) years lifespan.

Read also: Nigeria’s agricultural imperative: Need for a consolidated policy framework (Part 1)

He noted that the policy had been operational since it was launched on the 31st October 2019 and emphasised that the policy was pivotal in addressing the unique challenges faced by rural women farmers, who are the backbone of the Agriculture sector.

Ogunbiyi pointed out that the Ministry’s mission aligns with the goals of ICEHD and recognised the value of collaboration in driving meaningful change.

He stated that through partnership, the Ministry aims at strengthening the policy framework, enhancing capacity building, and promoting gender equality.

He said, “We must recognise the importance of a collaborative approach. We will work closely with ICEHD, government and other non-government organizations, civil society, and the private sectors to ensure our efforts are complementary and effective.”

In her welcome address, Kachallah Damaturu, director special duties, said the review of the gender policy was not just an administrative tasks, rather an opportunity to enhance women’s participation, address barriers they face, and ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities.

Read also: Nigeria’s agricultural imperative: Need for a consolidated policy framework (Part 2)

“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”, Damaturu added.

Maryam Keshinro, permanent secretary, Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, represented by director gender affairs, Adamu Samaila Web, stated that the review was an opportunity to refine and strengthen the policy to reflect the evolving needs of women, men and youths in the Agriculture sector.

She added that it was a moment to ensure that the voices of those most affected by systematic inequalities are heard and their contributions recognised, adding that it was also a call to action for all stakeholders, government, private sector, civil society and development partner to work collaboratively and purposefully towards translating the policy into impactful change.