Pong-tamale: Stakeholders at the inaugural 'She Grows Conference 2026' have emphasized the need for a narrative shift regarding women in the agricultural value chain, urging policymakers and industry players to recognize women farmers as entrepreneurs and key economic drivers.
According to Ghana News Agency, the two-day conference, held in the Savelugu Municipality of the Northern Region and organized by Hajia Fatahiya Abdul Aziz, Member of Parliament for the Savelugu Constituency, brought together 500 women farmers, agribusiness entrepreneurs, traditional leaders, and development partners. The event, under the theme 'Her Hands, Our Harvest - The Future is Fertile', aimed to advance women's participation in agriculture and entrepreneurship through various interventions.
Hajia Abdul Aziz highlighted that women have long been sustaining families and economies through agriculture, yet their contributions remain undervalued. She stressed the importance of redefining perceptions of women farmers and promoting their roles as innovators and economic actors.
The conference responded to the United Nations' declaration of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, aiming to position women at the center of agricultural and economic transformation. Participants received training in modern agricultural practices, digital literacy, and agribusiness management to improve productivity and market access.
Hajia Abdul Aziz announced partnerships with academic institutions and development agencies to strengthen innovation and sustainable practices among women farmers. She also introduced a safe-space platform to address mental health and community wellbeing, supported by development partners.
Madam Patricia Appiagyei, Deputy Minority Leader in Parliament, emphasized the importance of investing in women farmers for economic growth and food security. She advocated for increased investments in women-led agricultural enterprises and innovations, describing the future of agriculture as 'female, green, innovative, and profitable.'
Chef Failatu Abdul-Razak encouraged participants to explore opportunities within the hospitality and food service industries during a panel discussion. Attendees also visited The Fertile Hub exhibition, showcasing regional agricultural innovations and products.