The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations’ 2023 report reveals a remarkable trend: women dominate employment in agrifood systems, surpassing men. This feat is achieved even as they shoulder the weight of unpaid domestic and care duties, encompassing tasks like household maintenance and family caregiving.
Thus, in the vast expanse of Africa’s agricultural landscape, a force of change emerges—African women, shaping a future of food security and sustainable farming. Here women, often silent heroes, apply the power of circularity to drive positive transformations in their communities. From nurturing traditions to pioneering innovations, they play diverse roles that inspire profound change.
Championing Circular Solutions
In a world facing the challenges of food security and sustainable agriculture, the impact of African women is unmistakable. Their influence resonates through initiatives that embrace circularity, a concept that harmonizes economic growth, social equity, and environmental preservation. Through this lens, women emerge as community stewards, educators, innovators, livestock managers, cultivators, and even pioneers in curbing post-harvest losses.
Nurturing Sustainable Traditions
Across many African societies, women hold a central role in nurturing families, a legacy ingrained through matriarchal influence. Their role extends beyond nourishment—it shapes dietary habits and influences household food choices from an early age.
Educators of Change
African women are potent educators, propagating awareness of circular food solutions within their communities. Through community gatherings, social networks, and activities, these women enlighten others about the significance of sustainable farming practices. Their dedication to knowledge-sharing lays the foundation for embracing the long-term benefits of circular food systems.
Innovators Shaping Agriculture
From pioneering climate-smart farming practices to introducing aquaponics and vertical gardening in urban landscapes, women are important adopters of circular food-tech solutions. Their resilience and resourcefulness inspire generations, fostering creativity and the adoption of sustainable practices.
Masters of Livestock and Cultivation
Women excel in managing and processing livestock, playing a focal role in market product production, and harnessing sales for sustenance while controlling the distribution of for example eggs, milk, and animal meat. Notably, they contribute to more than 50 percent of food production in developing nations. This role extends to market dynamics, consumer trends, and beyond.
Reducing Post-Harvest Loss
Post-harvest loss remains a significant challenge across Africa, impacting both food availability and economic stability. Women play a critical role in mitigating this by enhancing drying/storage techniques, adopting efficient cleaning methods, and introducing innovative food processing practices.
The article from Wikifarmer goes into detail on how African women emerge as stalwarts of sustainable food solutions, influencing different components of the sector. Their complex roles catalyze sustainable practices, safeguard wisdom, and inspire communities to embrace circular food systems. At INCiTiS-FOOD, we relate and champion the innovative paths toward adopting circular food systems and the role women play in them. Look into the blog post on Wikifarmer to discover more.
