At this month’s U.N. General Assembly, the focus is on how women can transform food systems worldwide. Women are vital to agriculture. They make up almost half of Africa’s agricultural workforce and play key roles in food processing and climate-smart farming across Asia and the Pacific. Globally, women are the majority of smallholder farmers, crucial to nutrition and food distribution. Yet, they face significant hurdles like limited access to land, credit, and decision-making spaces.
A recent U.N. Food Systems Summit revealed pressing issues. The world’s food systems are vulnerable due to climate change, conflicts, and economic challenges. Hunger and malnutrition are on the rise again in many places. However, the summit also underscored a hopeful message. Empowering women in agriculture can lead to better community outcomes. Studies indicate that closing the gender gap in farming might boost yields by 30% and potentially lift over 100 million people out of hunger.
But change is not just necessary; it is a moral, economic, social, and environmental imperative.
This month’s U.N. assembly is a chance for leaders to prioritize gender equity in food systems. Young leaders at earlier regional meetings highlighted how crucial it is to invest in education and technology to ensure food access. Their Youth Declaration emphasizes incorporating gender equality at all levels, from schools to global discussions.
The private sector must also take responsibility. Food companies influence diets and consumption patterns significantly. Women-led businesses are innovating in sustainable practices. When corporations invest in these initiatives, they not only create new markets but empower women.
However, barriers persist. Cultural norms often limit women’s roles in agricultural cooperatives, while land inheritance laws in many regions leave them at a disadvantage. During crises, women frequently sacrifice their own nutrition to feed their families. This cycle must be broken with action, not just words.
Some countries are paving the way with initiatives like gender-responsive services in Ethiopia and women-led cooperatives in Nepal. But global expansion of these efforts is vital.
As the assembly unfolds, leaders should commit to investing in women’s leadership in food systems. Every aspect of global food financing should include gender metrics to ensure accountability. Supporting locally-driven solutions led by women is paramount.
The momentum generated at recent summits—where young leaders and women’s groups united for sustainable food systems—needs to be sustained. Active involvement and commitment to gender equality can help address hunger, combat climate change, and foster resilient communities. Women aren’t just a part of the food narrative; they are central to it.
For more insights, check out the U.N. Food Systems Hub.
