As the world marks the International Women’s Day 2025, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) Resource Centre has commended women farmers for their tireless efforts in ensuring food security.
In a statement signed by Mr. Sulaimon Arigbabu, the Executive Secretary of HEDA, Arigbabu reaffirmed HEDA’s commitment to advocating policies and practices that would promote the livelihood, health, and well-being of small-scale women farmers.
“Women farmers face numerous challenges, including indoor air pollution from traditional cooking fuels like charcoal and firewood, which pose significant health risks.
“To address this, we will intensify our advocacy for cleaner cooking technologies to promote good health and well-being among women smallholder farmers,” Arigbabu said.
Arigbabu said HEDA would continue to empower women farmers with critical climate and agrometeorological information.
He said the empowerment would enable them to make informed decisions and minimise losses and contribute to a more sustainable food system.
“We will also collaborate with stakeholders to strengthen market linkages, creating better economic opportunities for women in agriculture.
“HEDA remains committed to amplifying the voices of women farmers, championing their rights, and pushing for policies that empower them to thrive,” Arigbabu said.
“By focusing on the specific needs and challenges of women smallholder farmers, HEDA aims to contribute to a more equitable and sustainable food system transformation,” he said.
By Olaitan Idris