IWD 2025: HEDA Reaffirms Commitment to Smallholder Women Farmers

As the world marks International Women’s Day 2025, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has commended women farmers for their tireless efforts in ensuring food security.

This is contained in a statement signed by Mr Sulaimon Arigbabu, Executive Secretary of HEDA on Saturday in Lagos.

Arigbabu reaffirmed HEDA’s commitment to advocating for policies and practices that promote the livelihood, health, and well-being of small-scale women farmers.

“Women farmers face numerous challenges, including indoor air pollution from traditional cooking fuels like charcoal and firewood, which pose significant health risks.

“To address this, we will intensify our advocacy for cleaner cooking technologies to promote good health and well-being among women smallholder farmers,” Arigbabu said.

In addition to promoting cleaner cooking technologies, Arigbabu said that HEDA would prioritise empowering women farmers with critical climate and agrometeorological information.

He said that the empowerment would enable them to make informed decisions and minimize losses, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable food system.

“We will also collaborate with stakeholders to strengthen market linkages, creating better economic opportunities for women in agriculture.

“HEDA remains committed to amplifying the voices of women farmers, championing their rights, and pushing for policies that empower them to thrive,” Arigbabu said.

He added that by focusing on the specific needs and challenges of women smallholder farmers, HEDA aims to contribute to a more equitable and sustainable food system transformation.