Let us harness the potential of women as agents of change in sustainable agriculture. By Janet Kabaya.

For decades, the agricultural sector has been the backbone of Kenya’s economy and the largest contributor to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). For as long as this has been the case, women have been key contributors to the agricultural sector. The International Labour Organisation (ILO) estimates that between 42% and 65% of the agricultural labour force is made up of women. Yet, their contribution and relevance are often overlooked. 

Studies have shown that women who own land are more likely to adopt sustainable farming methods than their male counterparts. Their leadership and empowerment are essential not only for the advancement of agriculture but also for the creation of a more just, equitable, and sustainable world. These practices help maintain soil fertility, promote biodiversity, and increase climate resilience, putting them at the forefront of the sustainable agriculture movement.

As the field of sustainable agriculture continues to grow, it is important that we recognise the role that women play towards achieving sustainable agricultural practices. In Kenya, where women are responsible for much of the country’s agricultural production, attaining sustainable agriculture depends on them adopting sustainable practices. However, all too frequently, small-scale farmers lack the means, ability, and expertise to advance climate-smart and sustainable business practices that benefit local ecosystems and farms. The male-dominated environments in which many of these farmers operate make it even more difficult for female farmers to utilise the limited resources available. Addressing this disparity is essential to ending the cycle of poverty and environmental degradation.

To truly harness the potential of women as agents of change in sustainable agriculture, it is essential to address these systemic barriers and create an enabling environment that fosters gender equality and empowerment. Empowering women in agriculture requires concerted efforts at multiple levels. Policies must be implemented to ensure equal rights to land ownership, access to credit, and participation in decision-making processes. Investment in education and training programmes tailored to the needs of female farmers can enhance their technical skills, financial literacy, and leadership abilities. Furthermore, fostering networks and mentorship opportunities can provide women with the support and resources needed to thrive in a male-dominated industry.

Significantly, women can transform agriculture through the promotion of regenerative practices. Unlike conventional farming methods that prioritise short-term gains at the expense of long-term sustainability, regenerative agriculture seeks to restore and enhance ecosystems while also improving agricultural productivity. Women-led initiatives around the globe are championing regenerative techniques such as agroforestry, renewable energy, cover cropping, and rotational grazing, harnessing the power of nature to heal degraded landscapes and mitigate climate change.

Furthermore, women play a pivotal role in environmental conservation within the agricultural sector. As stewards of the land, they recognise the delicate balance between human activity and ecological health. We need to ensure more female leadership in the private and public sectors in the fight to conserve and protect our environment. At Kakuzi, we have taken deliberate action to increase the female population in our workforce. Women in agriculture, especially in leadership, are leading voices in Kakuzi's business practices. The diversity and inclusivity of women in what was once a male-dominated field is its own form of sustainable business.

By implementing practices that minimise chemical inputs, promote biodiversity, and protect natural resources, female farmers can safeguard biodiversity, mitigate soil erosion, and preserve water quality. Their conservation efforts extend beyond individual farms, creating ripple effects that benefit entire areas.

Moreover, women are at the forefront of fostering community resilience through sustainable agriculture. In many rural areas, women serve as the backbone of agricultural communities, responsible for food production, processing, and distribution. Through cooperative farming initiatives, farmers' markets, and community-supported agriculture programmes, women are revitalising local food systems, enhancing food security, and strengthening social bonds. 

One key target of the Malabo Declaration is to achieve a six percent annual growth rate in agricultural productivity and increase yields by 2025. As the world works towards the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, which pledges to “leave no one behind,” we need to apply new thinking in agriculture by ensuring that women farmers are truly prioritised and not left behind.

When women have access to more income, their children, their families and global economies in general benefit. We must act intentionally to create a new normal where women are part and parcel of agrifood sector policies, decisions and actions.  

The writer is the Gender and Human Rights Manager at Kakuzi PLC