The role of women in agricultural transformation

African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) is a program that focuses on equipping women agricultural scientists across sub-Saharan Africa to accelerate agricultural gains by strengthening their research and leadership skills. The program has already benefitted 325 scientists, empowering them to develop agricultural innovations that contribute to the prosperity and well-being of African smallholder farmers. This initiative, spearheaded by the Director of AWARD, Wanjiru Kamau-Rutenberg, highlights the crucial role of inclusion in agricultural transformation. The program's core principle is to ensure that economic benefits from the growth of the agriculture sector are distributed equitably and benefit all Africans rather than just a privileged few. In order to achieve this, women's involvement in the agricultural space is of utmost importance. At AWARD, there is a specific focus on addressing the lack of women's leadership in agricultural research, aiming to build a full team of talented individuals to tackle the pressing agricultural challenges facing the continent. The importance of leveraging the brilliance of both men and women in agricultural research is emphasized to find innovative solutions to Africa's agricultural problems. One key area where support is needed for women in agriculture is accessing finance for agricultural opportunities. Historically, women have faced barriers in accessing and unlocking financial resources. To address this issue, there is a need to change societal attitudes that undermine women's capabilities and recognize the contributions women have made to the continent's economy. Additionally, policies and regulations must be put in place to ensure equal access to finance for women in agriculture. By investing in changing cultural norms and implementing supportive policies, women can be empowered to access the financial resources needed to thrive in the agricultural sector. Access to markets is another critical aspect for women entrepreneurs in the agricultural space. To support women entrepreneurs, there is a need to ensure that there are viable markets for their produce. This involves considering the state of road infrastructure, the vibrancy of rural economies, and the overall economic environment. By diversifying market opportunities beyond urban centers and focusing on building sustainable rural economies, women entrepreneurs can access markets more easily and compete effectively. Ultimately, empowering African women in agricultural research and development not only drives agricultural innovation and economic growth but also promotes inclusive prosperity for all Africans.