In a world that is already gender-skewed, the need for social inclusion and equity cannot be overstated. However, addressing these disparities requires more than repetitive discussions; it demands intentional action. Nowhere is this clearer than in the agricultural sector, where female farmers are stepping up to meet the ever-growing need for food security and economic prosperity. As the global demand for food rises, these women are not only providing innovative solutions but are also setting new standards for social and economic impact.
To amplify women’s efforts in achieving food security, we partnered with Oxfam in Nigeria to spotlight the achievements of female food heroes through the 2024 Female Food Heroes Award. This initiative recognises remarkable women farmers, also known as Ogbonge Women, who have made substantial contributions to both economic growth and social development through their agricultural activities.
The Female Food Heroes Award is more than just a recognition; it is a movement aimed at empowering women who are at the forefront of food security. These female farmers, drawn from every geopolitical zone in Nigeria, have proven themselves not only as food producers but also as key agents of change in their communities. Through their farms, they are providing sustainable economic solutions while fostering social impacts that resonate far beyond the agricultural sector.
Our collaboration brought a unique touch to the award, resulting in the 2024 Female Food Heroes Award featuring specialized training for the shortlisted women on topics such as climate change, resilience building, and access to finance. This training aimed to empower women to tackle the challenges posed by climate change, providing them with essential knowledge and tools to create more resilient farming systems, along with strategies to secure funding for increased output and impact. Given that climate change directly affects food security, this training was an essential component of the award, ensuring these women can continue to thrive despite environmental challenges.
The 2024 edition of the award culminated in a vibrant ceremony held in June in Abuja, where winners were announced and celebrated. These women, through their hard work and dedication, are showing the world that the future of agriculture is inclusive, innovative, and impactful.
At the heart of this initiative is the belief that real change begins when all hands are on deck. We cannot afford to overlook the critical role women play in ensuring food security and economic resilience. With initiatives like the Female Food Heroes Award, we are taking bold steps toward a future where gender equity is not just talked about but realized in meaningful and impactful ways. These Ogbonge Women are not just food heroes; they are the trailblazers of a more equitable world.