By George George Idowu
In the heart of rural landscapes, where the rhythm of life follows the seasons and the earth’s cycles, the relationship between a woman and her farm is profound and enduring. The phrase “My woman, my farm” encapsulates not just ownership, but a deep symbiosis and mutual respect that sustain both life and livelihood.
There is no iota of doubt that women have always been central to agriculture. Globally, they make up about 43% of the agricultural labor force, a figure that rises to nearly 70% in some regions of Africa and Asia. Yet, their contributions often go unrecognized. They till the soil, plant seeds, tend to livestock, harvest crops, and manage households, embodying resilience and strength in the face of myriad challenges.
As it is well known that a typical day for a woman farmer begins before dawn. She wakes up to milk the cows, feed the chickens, and tend to other livestock. As the sun rises, she moves to the fields, working alongside her family to plant, weed, and harvest crops. Her day is a blend of physical labor and meticulous planning, ensuring that the farm runs smoothly and efficiently.
Beyond the fields, she manages household chores, prepares meals, and often takes care of children and elders. This balancing act requires not just physical endurance but also incredible organizational skills and a deep understanding of the land and its needs.
However, despite their critical role, women farmers face numerous obstacles. Access to land is a significant issue, as traditional and legal systems in many parts of the world favor men in land inheritance and ownership. Financial resources are another hurdle; women often struggle to secure loans and credit due to lack of collateral and discriminatory practices.
Moreover, they are frequently excluded from agricultural training and extension services, which limits their ability to adopt new technologies and practices that could improve productivity and sustainability. Social norms and gender roles further restrict their opportunities, perpetuating a cycle of inequality.
But, despite these challenges, women farmers demonstrate remarkable resilience and innovation. They are at the forefront of sustainable farming practices, utilizing indigenous knowledge and techniques passed down through generations. In many communities, women lead initiatives in agroforestry, organic farming, and water conservation, contributing to environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
Collective action has also been a powerful tool for women farmers. By forming cooperatives and associations, they gain better access to markets, resources, and decision-making processes. These groups provide a platform for sharing knowledge, advocating for rights, and building solidarity.
Hence, to truly honor the contribution of women to agriculture, systemic changes are necessary. Policies that ensure equal access to land, financial services, education, and training are crucial. Empowering women farmers with the tools and opportunities they need not only benefits them but also leads to more productive and sustainable agricultural systems.
Investing in women farmers’ means investing in food security, economic growth, and community well-being. It recognizes that the success of a farm is inherently tied to the strength and resilience of the woman who nurtures it.
Thus, “My woman, my farm” is a tribute to the countless women whose toil and tenacity feed the world. It is a call to acknowledge their indispensable role and to support them in overcoming the barriers they face. As we look to the future, the partnership between women and their farms will remain a cornerstone of rural life and global food systems, deserving of our respect, recognition, and unwavering support.