Women are the backbone of agriculture in Africa, driving food production, agribusiness, and rural economies. Yet, they face systemic challenges, land ownership restrictions, limited access to financing, and inadequate exposure to modern farming technology. As we celebrate this year’s IWD, under the 2025 UN Women’s theme “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” we reaffirm the need for gender-responsive policies and initiatives that promote women’s rights in agriculture, ensuring equal access to land, resources, and decision-making roles.
Despite making up over 60% of Africa’s agricultural workforce, many women lack land rights, financial resources, and modern farming tools. They often juggle farm work with household responsibilities while battling climate change, unstable markets, and social constraints that limit their economic opportunities. Yet, their contributions to food security and poverty reduction are undeniable, as they continue to develop innovative agribusiness models, create employment, and sustain their communities.
At U-Farm Africa, we are committed to bridging these gaps by ensuring female farmers have access to mechanization, financing, and market opportunities. By integrating technology, advocacy, and capacity-building initiatives, we empower women to move beyond subsistence farming and become key players in Africa’s agricultural value chain. Our initiatives align with the UN Women’s goals by promoting economic empowerment, reducing inequality, and fostering sustainable agricultural practices that benefit both women and the broader society.
This International Women’s Day, we call on governments, organizations, and individuals to take concrete action in removing gender-based barriers in agriculture. By investing in women farmers, advocating for fair policies, and supporting initiatives that provide access to credit, land, and technology, we can create an inclusive agricultural sector where all women thrive.
To every woman tilling the land, leading agribusinesses, and shaping agricultural policies. You are the heartbeat of Africa’s agricultural revolution. Your work sustains nations, feeds communities, and drives economic growth.
Happy International Women’s Day 2025! Together, let’s cultivate a future where ALL women and girls in agriculture have the rights, opportunities, and empowerment they deserve.
