Women at the Frontlines of Nigeria’s Food Systems
As we reflect on the achievements of women and look forward to celebrating Mothering Sunday, it is important to recognize the crucial role women play in sustaining Nigeria’s food systems. Women are not only caregivers in households—they are the backbone of agriculture, nutrition, and community livelihoods. Yet, their contributions are often invisible and under-supported.
Women Driving Nigeria’s Food Economy
Women constitute nearly 70% of the agricultural workforce in Nigeria, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO, 2025). They are involved in planting, harvesting, processing, and marketing crops, often managing farms while also caring for households. Despite this, women face significant barriers:
- Limited access to land and property rights
- Reduced access to finance, modern tools, and inputs
- Minimal representation in agricultural leadership and policy decisions
These gaps not only affect women’s income but also the productivity and resilience of entire communities.
Nutrition and Community Health
Women are often responsible for household nutrition, ensuring that children, elderly family members, and communities have access to safe and nutritious food. Yet, data shows that malnutrition rates are higher in households where women lack decision-making power over food production and finances. Supporting women in agriculture directly translates into improved nutrition outcomes and healthier communities.
Climate Resilience and Rural Development
Climate change disproportionately affects rural areas, where women manage both farms and households. Erratic rainfall, flooding, and soil degradation increase workloads and risk for female farmers. Investing in women’s access to climate-smart agriculture techniques, water management, and extension services is critical for building resilient food systems.
Policy and Advocacy Imperatives
Despite their essential role, women’s contributions to food security and rural development remain largely invisible in policy frameworks. DeKing Charity Foundation advocates for:
- Equitable access to land, inputs, and credit for women farmers
- Inclusion of women in agricultural decision-making at community and national levels
- Training and support for sustainable and climate-resilient farming methods
- Recognition of women’s dual role in care and production
DeKing Foundation in Action
Through initiatives led by women in our programs and our sister station, Echo FM 100.7 Owerri, we are raising awareness about the importance of supporting women in agriculture. Our campaigns highlight practical solutions for food security, economic empowerment, and community resilience—ensuring women’s voices are heard and their contributions valued.
This Mothering Sunday, let’s not only celebrate mothers in households but also the women who sustain Nigeria’s food systems. By investing in their skills, resources, and leadership, we can strengthen communities, improve nutrition, and build a more equitable society.
