Today, representatives gathered to honor and acknowledge the remarkable strength and contributions of rural women worldwide. They stated that International Rural Women’s Day provides a special opportunity to celebrate the unwavering dedication and perseverance of these women, who play pivotal roles in their families, communities, and nations.
The collective, dedicated to supporting peasant rural women farmers, expressed immense pride in standing alongside these extraordinary women, emphasizing their commitment to providing assistance and ensuring their voices are heard. They noted the myriad challenges faced by these women, including limited resources and social and cultural barriers.
According to recent data from the Statistic Service, they reported that 1.5 million females in rural areas are engaged in vulnerable employment. Despite these challenges, the representatives highlighted that rural women are the cornerstone of food systems, economies, and societies, possessing invaluable knowledge, championing sustainable practices, and driving innovation.
They shared that this year’s theme, “Rural Women Cultivating Good Food for All,” resonates deeply with their mission, as they believe empowering rural women is essential for food security, environmental sustainability, equitable opportunities, and resilient communities.
Through their initiatives, they have observed positive impacts from empowering rural women, such as successful collaborations, women entrepreneurs gaining access to markets and financial support, and communities becoming more resilient to climate change.
However, they acknowledged that their work is far from complete. They emphasized the need to advocate for policies that uphold the rights of rural women, provide education and training, ensure access to information and technology, and foster collaboration with other stakeholders.
The representatives conveyed a message to all rural women, stating that their voices are significant and their contributions invaluable, affirming that empowering them remains their top priority. They also urged partners, stakeholders, and fellow advocates to stand in solidarity with rural women and continue their collective efforts toward a more just world for all.
In conclusion, they declared that International Rural Women’s Day is not merely a celebration but a call to action, urging everyone to commit to empowering rural women and building a brighter future for everyone.