What's Happening?
The United Nations has designated 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, with CGIAR playing a pivotal role in promoting gender equality in agriculture. The initiative aims to highlight the contributions
of women in agrifood systems and drive policy changes to support their achievements. CGIAR, through its Gender Equality and Inclusion Accelerator, is working with partners to develop innovations and solutions that advance gender equality. The organization is focusing on generating evidence-based solutions, engaging in science-policy dialogues, and amplifying the voices of women farmers. The initiative seeks to transform agrifood systems by ensuring that women are central to these efforts.
Why It's Important?
The International Year of the Woman Farmer is a significant step towards recognizing and addressing the challenges faced by women in agriculture. By focusing on gender equality, the initiative aims to improve food security, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods. CGIAR's involvement underscores the importance of research and innovation in creating scalable solutions that benefit women in agrifood systems. This initiative has the potential to mobilize new partnerships and funding, ultimately leading to more inclusive and equitable agricultural practices. The focus on women farmers is crucial for achieving broader development goals and ensuring that agricultural advancements benefit all members of society.
What's Next?
CGIAR plans to continue its engagement throughout 2026 by sharing investable innovations and generating new research on solutions that improve outcomes for women in agrifood systems. The organization will also focus on science-policy engagement and storytelling to connect evidence to policy processes. CGIAR aims to elevate the voices and experiences of women farmers, ensuring that their contributions are recognized and valued. The initiative is expected to foster collaboration among governments, research institutions, and the private sector to create a more inclusive agricultural landscape. As the year progresses, CGIAR will work to ensure that the momentum generated by the International Year of the Woman Farmer leads to lasting change.
