Experts Convene in Nairobi to Empower Women in Agriculture
Eng Dr. Laban Kiplagat (center),German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development ,Senior Policy Officer Theresa Herbold (R) and Gender Unit at the State Department for Agriculture Elizabeth Yegon (L) during a press briefing
By Sharon Atieno
The State Department for Agriculture in partnership with German government through GIZ has hosted a high – level forum aiming to strengthen the women’s role and other marginalized groups in sustainable agriculture and food systems.
The two day conference brought together policymakers, practitioners, and activists from 20 countries aims to enhance women’s participation in agriculture and food systems.
Speaking at the event in Nairobi, the Principal Secretary,State Department for Agriculture Dr Paul Ronoh stressed that amplifying women’s voices is not just about gender equity but a necessity for achieving food security, climate resilience, and sustainable development hence emphasizes on women inclusion in food security.
“Together, Strengthening Women’s Voices for Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems conference,”said the PS.
In his Speech read on his behalf by the Agriculture Engineering Secretary,Eng Laban Kiplagat,the PS said that the gathering brings a shared vision, in a world where women’s voices are at the forefront of building sustainable, resilient, and equitable food systems.
“Women play a vital role in global agriculture, producing a significant portion of the world’s food, preserving traditional knowledge, and sustaining rural economies. Despite these contributions, they continue to face systemic barriers in accessing land, resources, markets, and decision-making platforms,” he noted.
The PS emphasized that the framework and objectives of this conference aim to address the challenges faced by women, girls and other marginalized groups, in achieving full, equal and meaningful participation in policy, programming, and decision-making processes, highlighting that while the primary focus is on Africa, global perspectives would enrich discussions on gender equality in agriculture.
He asserted that the conference is designed to amplify women’s voices, ensuring their perspectives influence policies, innovations and agricultural practices,Share knowledge and best practices, drawing from inspiring global success stories and foster collaboration, strengthening networks to drive collective action toward gender-inclusive food systems and advocate for policy and systemic change, ensuring women’s leadership in agriculture is recognized and supported at all levels.
He further noted that detailed documentation of the conference proceedings would provide strategic pathways for achieving gender-equitable food systems across Africa.
“These insights will serve as valuable guidance for the Community of Practice and further engagement with relevant stakeholders,” he said.
Ronoh urged participants to view the conference as more than just a forum for discussion but a catalyst for action.
“Over the next three days, let us listen, learn, and work together to build a future where women are not only heard but are leading the transformation of our food systems,” he said.
He expressed his gratitude to the event’s speakers, panelists, organizers, and all participants for their commitment to this crucial cause and acknowledges co-hosts GIZ and the AMKA African Justice Initiative for their dedication and support in making the conference a reality.
The PS reaffirmed the urgency of removing barriers, investing in women-led solutions, and fostering inclusive agricultural systems.
“Strengthening women’s voices in agrifood systems is not an option,it is a necessity. Governments, businesses, researchers, and communities must collaborate to drive real action, implement policies that support women farmers, and create platforms that amplify their leadership,” he said.
The future of our agrifood systems depends on this. Together, we can shape a sustainable, equitable, and food-secure world where women’s voices lead the way.”The conference is expected to inspire actionable commitments and policy recommendations that will drive meaningful change in Africa’s agricultural landscape.
Making her remarks, a Senior Policy Officer representing the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development Theresa Herbold reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to the cause.
“Women are central to agriculture and food security. This forum allows us to bring together diverse voices and work towards resilient and inclusive food systems,” she noted.
Concurrently, head of the Gender Unit at the State Department for Agriculture Elizabeth Yegon underscored the government’s dedication to supporting women farmers.
“As a government, we are committed to amplifying women’s voices and addressing their specific needs in agriculture. This collaboration with GIZ and other partners will help us take this agenda forward,” she stated.
The forum seeks to foster strategic partnerships between Kenya and international stakeholders to drive policy reforms and sustainable solutions that empower women in agriculture.
Delegates expressed optimism that the discussions would yield actionable commitments to enhance food and nutrition security across Africa.
