In a significant effort to empower women in agriculture, over 70 women convened in Suva for the National Women in Agriculture Symposium aimed at sharing experiences and addressing challenges within the sector. Among the participants was Vijendra Wati, a seasoned 60-year-old farmer from Nabekavu, Labasa, who has devoted more than three decades to agriculture. She called for increased female leadership in the industry, emphasizing the importance of women’s voices in fostering growth within the sector.
Having started her agricultural journey at just six years old, Wati currently engages in various forms of farming, including vegetables, sugar cane, and poultry. She expressed her hopes that future generations of women—daughters and daughters-in-law—will find success and involvement in agriculture. Pretika Raj, a 39-year-old dairy farmer from Naluwai, Naitasiri, echoed this sentiment, stating that it is crucial for their contributions to receive the recognition they deserve.
Andrew Tukana, the Permanent Secretary for Agriculture, highlighted the essential role women play in the agriculture sector, reiterating the government’s commitment to promoting gender equality. He noted that the annual symposium, coinciding with International Women’s Day, serves as a vital platform to showcase the significant contributions of women in advancing sustainable agriculture and food security.
The symposium aligns with previous initiatives designed to enhance women’s roles in agriculture, such as the floriculture training programs held earlier this month. These efforts are part of broader government strategies aimed at increasing female participation and recognizing the invaluable contributions of women in sectors historically dominated by men, like agriculture.
As women farmers are increasingly acknowledged for their vital roles, there is hope that their participation will lead to a more equitable agricultural landscape. Initiatives aimed at education and empowerment signal a positive shift for women’s rights and representation in agriculture, promising a resilient and progressive future for the sector. The growing support for women in agriculture emphasizes the belief that investing in their capabilities can drive community development and economic stability in Fiji.
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