Insecurity Threatening Women’s Participation in Farming

 Insecurity in various parts of Nigeria is increasingly hindering women’s involvement in agriculture, a sector where they have traditionally played a significant role. The escalating threats from armed groups, coupled with societal norms, have made it challenging for women to engage in farming activities, thereby affecting food production and economic stability in rural areas.

Stakeholders at a recent high-level dialogue convened by the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research Gender Equality Initiative, through its HER+ initiative, emphasized the need for improved access to agricultural lands and resources for women. The dialogue highlighted that women are disproportionately affected by climate shocks and insecurity, underscoring the importance of integrating women’s perspectives into agricultural policies.

The dialogue gathered a diverse array of stakeholders, including government representatives, civil society organizations, and researchers, to explore innovative approaches to harness women’s potential in agriculture. A key focus was the Women Empowerment in Agrifood Governance framework developed by CGIAR researchers, which aims to enhance women’s influence in policy-making.

Participants voiced concerns regarding the societal norms that inhibit women’s efficiency in the agrifood sector. A Post-Doctorate Fellow from the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture highlighted significant gender-based restrictions women face, including limitations in financial autonomy, technology usage, and leadership roles. These norms significantly hinder women’s productivity.

Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including improving security, providing targeted support to women farmers, and implementing policies that promote gender equality in the agricultural sector. Such measures are essential to ensure sustainable food production and the economic empowerment of women in Nigeria.

These developments underscore the dynamic nature of Nigeria’s political and social landscape, highlighting both challenges and opportunities in governance, security, and gender equality.