Today, on International Women’s Day, we honor the remarkable contributions of women agricultural scientists and smallholder female farmers who are shaping the future of food security, sustainability, and innovation.
Professor Yemisi Jeff-Agboola, founder of Voice of Women in the Development of Agriculture (VOWDA) and a distinguished Professor of Microbiology and Food Safety at Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba Akoko, extends her heartfelt appreciation to these trailblazing women who are not only feeding nations but also driving groundbreaking agricultural research.
The Backbone of Agriculture: Women in Science and Farming
Across the globe, women play a crucial role in agriculture, from scientific breakthroughs in crop resilience to hands-on farming that nourishes communities. Despite facing numerous challenges—limited access to land, financing, and technology—female farmers and scientists continue to innovate, lead, and transform the agricultural landscape.
Women Agricultural Scientists: Pioneering Innovation
Women researchers in agriculture are at the forefront of:
Developing climate-smart crops that withstand drought and diseases.
Enhancing food safety standards to ensure healthier consumption.
Promoting sustainable farming techniques that protect the environment.
Smallholder Female Farmers: Feeding the World
Millions of smallholder women farmers contribute significantly to global food production, yet they often lack equal access to:
Land and resources to expand their farms.
Education and training on modern farming techniques.
Financial support to scale their agricultural businesses.
Empowering Women in Agriculture
On this International Women’s Day, we call for:
* Greater investment in women-led agricultural initiatives.
* Stronger policies to ensure land rights and equal opportunities.
* More visibility and recognition for the women transforming food systems.
A Message from Prof. Yemisi Jeff-Agboola
“Women are the heartbeat of agriculture, from the laboratory to the farmlands. Their resilience, knowledge, and dedication feed nations and fuel progress. Today, we celebrate every woman growing our future—your work is invaluable, and your impact is immeasurable.”
Let’s continue to amplify the voices of women in agriculture and work towards a future where they receive the recognition, support, and opportunities they truly deserve.
Happy International Women’s Day! #IWD #WomenInAgriculture #VOWDA
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