In Rwanda, women play a significant role in the development of agriculture. They are responsible for most farm activities, helping their families access sufficient food and contributing to national economic growth. Considerable progress has been made in promoting women in agriculture.
Rachel Mukandayisenga, a farmer from Nyarugenge District, Mageragere Sector, Kavumu Cell, grows maize in the Inkuka marshland. She mentions that she faces challenges, particularly the lack of pesticides.
She says, “I have never received any agricultural training, and although I don’t know about agroecology, I have tried traditional and environmentally friendly farming methods, such as planting trees on my farm. We need access to pest control chemicals, quality seeds, and financial support to improve productivity.
Anastazi Nzeyima is a resident of Mageragere sector in Nyarugenge district. He is one of the farmers in this sector and says that gender equality and complementarity between men and women are essential for sustainable agriculture.
He says, “When women do not have the same rights as men in decision-making, accessing land, or using agricultural produce, it prevents achieving the desired level of productivity.” He affirms that agriculture that does not harm the environment cannot be successful without cooperation among all family members, especially between men and women.
He continues to say that he asks the authorities to help them understand how agroecology works so that they can also have equal participation in agricultural activities, from decision-making to harvesting and managing the produce.
He says, “This was clearly seen where I live, where women previously had no role in collective farming activities, which created challenges in operations.”
Women have started to have a voice, which has increased productivity and improved relationships within families.
Anastazi affirms that promoting gender equality in agriculture is a common benefit because it helps manage natural resources well, increases productivity, and improves family livelihoods. According to him.
He says, “Sustainable agriculture requires that everyone has a voice, is empowered, and works together to improve lives and the environment.”
Raymond Kamwe, in charge of Community Development, Gender, and Youth Inclusion at RAB, revealed that women represent at least 45% of project beneficiaries at RAB. He emphasized the importance of targeted programs to encourage women to participate in training, access agricultural project resources, and increase productivity. “We prioritize gender equality and work with partners to empower women,” he said.
Environmental researcher Dr. Abias Maniragaba highlighted that agroecology is a farming system that protects the environment, promotes food security, and addresses the effects of climate change.
“Agroecology gives women a voice in decision-making, enabling them to engage in sustainable and modern agriculture. But the lack of knowledge and cultural mindsets still hinders many women from fully participating in agriculture.”
Challenges
Women face challenges, including limited access to knowledge, financial constraints, and cultural barriers that prevent them from participating in agricultural decision-making. These issues are being addressed through collaboration between the government and partners to promote sustainable and environmentally friendly agriculture.
“We are farmers, but we are not skilled in agroecology. We need more training to adapt to smart agriculture and to embrace environmental protection through agriculture.” Said Mukandayisenga.
According to the Fifth Rwanda Population and Housing Census, conducted in 2022 by the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR), there are currently 77 percent of females engaged in agricultural activities compared to 58 percent of males.
Percentage distribution of agricultural households by gender and marital status
A study by the United Nations on Rwanda’s agricultural productivity showed that closing the gender gap in agriculture could add $418.6 million to the national GDP and create 238,000 jobs annually over the next 10 years.
