Farmers raise alarm over violence against women

The Nigeria Women for Agricultural Progress and Development Initiative (NWAPDI) has raised concerns over the rate of violence against women farmers, saying they are gradually being silenced in communities.

NWAPDI president, Omolara Swensson, raised the concern yesterday in Abuja during a train-the-trainer workshop in commemoration of 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, stating that violence against women in agriculture is not just a women’s issue.

She stated that when women are silenced, the agricultural communities lose their voices, innovations, and potential, which undermines productivity, food security, and rural development.

She said “Think about this: a woman who feels safe and supported can plant, but a woman living in fear cannot thrive- and when she suffers, we all suffer. We stand firm in the belief that no woman should be forced to choose between feeding her family and protecting herself from harm.”

She called on the government, agricultural organizations, and civil society to enact real change, strengthen laws, allocate resources, and lead by example.

She also called on men to challenge harmful attitudes and behaviors and stand beside women to create a culture of respect and equality.

Mrs Harriatu Ladi Suleiman Yakubu, earlier in her welcome remarks, noted that women and youth in the agricultural sector are often subjected to violence, harassment, and exploitation.

“This. is unacceptable, and it’s time for us to take action. That’s why we’re here today, to emphasize the urgent need for resources, support, and preventive actions to address gender-based violence in Nigeria’s agricultural sector,” she said.