Ms Grace Quaye, the President of the Development Action Association (DAA) has called on the government to address gender inequalities that persist in the agriculture and fisherIESy sector to promote gender equality.
She said this would empower rural women, unlock their full potential and contribute to the overall development of communities.
Ms. Quaye was speaking at an event to commemorate the 2024 International Day of the Rural Woman at Nyanyano Gomoa East, in the Central Region, on the theme “Rural Women Cultivating Food for All.”
She said while galamsey and sand-weaning activities were affecting women farmers, those in the fishery sector were also challenged with illegal fishing and lack of storage facilities and called for government support.
The International Day of Rural Women (IDRW), celebrated annually on October 15, seeks to recognize the essential contributions of rural women in agriculture, food security, and rural development.
It highlights the vital role women in agriculture play in food production, from farming to processing and distribution, while also addressing the unique challenges they face, such as limited access to resources and technology.
In Ghana, IDRW is especially significant as rural women form the backbone of the country’s agricultural sector, contributing to food security and economic growth.
The day serves as a platform to advocate for their empowerment, better support systems, and policy changes to ensure their voices are heard and their work is recognized both nationally and globally.
Ms Quaye said women account for a significant portion of the agricultural workforce in rural Ghana, contributing to food production, processing, and distribution.
She said despite the contributions they face such as gender discrimination, limited access to resources, and the impact of climate change, rural women continue to innovate, adapt and lead the way toward sustainable and resilient livelihood.
“As we celebrate this milestone, let us take a moment to reflect on the incredible achievement and resilience of our women farmers and fish processors of the Development Action Association,” she added.
The DAA President called for collaboration to create a more supportive environment for rural women.
Ms. Heather D’Agnes, Chief of Party Ghana Fisheries Recovers Activity, highlighting the important role rural women play, said globally, women account for 50 per cent of the farming, but in Ghana, it’s more like 80 per cent.
While commending the rural women in agriculture for their hard work, urged them to despite the challenges they face prioritize their children’s education and prevent child labour.
Mr. Bashiru Fuseini, Deputy Head of Programmes, Sustainable Development Through AgriBiz (GIZ AgriBiz) said the pivotal role of DAA had championed women’s participation in the agriculture and fisheries sector, contributing to the nourishment of the nation.
He called for continued collaboration between rural women farmers, the government, and stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of agricultural innovations to increase food production and sustainability.
Mr. Fuseini expressed the AgriBiz commitment to improving conditions that create sustainable employment in the agricultural sector, particularly for women.
Stakeholders at the event commended the DAA for their remarkable progress and for providing a platform for rural women to come together, showcasing their critical roles across the food system—from land preparation to crop production, processing, distribution, and consumption.
GNA