By Faridat Salifu
Stakeholders in the agricultural sector have affirmed their dedication to the swift implementation of the National Gender Policy on Agriculture during a recent forum organized by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS) in collaboration with the National Gender Steering Committee.
The event, held in Abuja on January 31, 2024, saw active participation from key players in the industry, including representatives from ActionAid Nigeria (AAN) and the Development Research Programme Centre (DRPC).
Mr. Temitope Fashedemi, the Permanent Secretary of FMAFS, expressed the ministry’s strong commitment to mainstreaming gender in the agricultural sector to enhance food security.
He stressed the importance of adopting gender-sensitive approaches, ensuring equal access and control of productive resources for both men and women.
Fashedemi highlighted the significance of involving both genders in planning and implementation, calling for collaboration between the federal and state governments and various ministries for effective policy implementation.
Related Posts
He urged civil society organizations to support the ministry in achieving these ambitious goals.
Mr. Azubike Nwokoye, Chairman of the National Gender Steering Committee, echoed the sentiment of support and contributions, emphasizing the forum’s aim to chart a way forward for the effective implementation of the gender policy.
The reform seeks to eliminate gender-biased discrimination and promote equal access to resources, services, technologies, markets, and opportunities in the agricultural sector.
Ifeoma Ayanwu, Deputy Director and Head of Gender at FMAFS, outlined key objectives of the policy. These include mainstreaming gender in extension delivery, institutionalizing gender-responsive budgeting, and promoting the use of gender-sensitive data collection and statistics for evidence-based planning, policy, and programming.
The stakeholders’ commitment to implementing the National Gender Policy on Agriculture reflects a collective effort to address gender disparities in the sector.
The ultimate goal is to foster economic growth, increase food security, and promote equitable opportunities for all individuals involved in agriculture.
