By Eddah Waithaka
Engineer Laban Kiplagat from Kenya’s State Department for Agriculture joined policymakers, researchers, and activists from across Africa today at a two-day forum focused on strengthening the role of women in agriculture.
The event, supported by the German government through GIZ, aims to address the critical contributions women make to food systems and agricultural value chains. “We recognize the importance women play in the agricultural sector and food systems,” said Kiplagat.
“We are here to exchange ideas, learn from experts, and listen to policymakers on how best to advance this conversation.”
The forum, hosted by Kenya in collaboration with the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, brings together participants from 20 African countries.
It highlights the Kenyan government’s commitment to food security and inclusivity, with a focus on empowering women and youth in agriculture.
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German-Kenyan Partnership Drives Agenda
Teresa Herbold, representing the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, emphasized the importance of the partnership. “We jointly organized this conference to strengthen women’s voices for sustainable agriculture and food systems,” she said.
“Women play a crucial role in the sector, and we are working together to build resilient and inclusive systems.” Herbold praised the strong collaboration with Kenya and noted the participation of practitioners, policymakers, and activists from across the continent.
“This forum is a step toward amplifying women’s voices and addressing the challenges they face in agriculture,” she added.
Amplifying Women’s Voices in Agriculture
Elizabeth Yegor, head of the Gender Unit in Kenya’s State Department for Agriculture, stressed the need to support women in agriculture.
“Over 80% of women are involved in agriculture, either as laborers, food producers, or key players in the value chain,” she said.
“We are here to amplify their voices and address their specific needs.” Yegor highlighted the government’s commitment to working with partners like GIZ to advance gender equality in agriculture.
“We are discussing how to support women in ensuring food and nutrition security for our homes,” she said. “This collaboration will continue to drive progress.”
A Collaborative Path Forward
The forum focuses on empowering women through policy development, capacity building, and inclusive value chain integration. Participants are exploring innovative solutions to challenges such as access to land, financing, and technology.
Engineer Kiplagat expressed optimism about the outcomes of the meeting. “This is a fruitful discussion that will shape the future of agriculture in Kenya and across Africa,” he said. “We are committed to ensuring women are at the forefront of this transformation.”
In a statement, Principal Secretary Dr. Kipronoh Ronoh of the Ministry of Agriculture also emphasized that strengthening women’s voices in agri-food systems is not just an option, but a necessity.
“Governments, businesses, researchers, and communities must work
together to remove barriers, invest in women-led solutions, and create
inclusive spaces where women can lead.
This is why today’s discussions are so critical. Let us move beyond dialogue
and commit to real action, policies that support women farmers, investments
in their enterprises, and platforms that amplify their expertise and leadership,” said PS Ronoh.
The event concludes tomorrow, with participants expected to issue a joint declaration outlining actionable steps to advance gender equality in agriculture.
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