Empowering women to lead agricultural transformation
Ministry of Agriculture Bangladesh has launched national activities for the International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026, aiming to bridge gender gaps and strengthen women’s role in agriculture.
The initiative was unveiled at a coordination meeting held at the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council, bringing together key stakeholders including Food and Agriculture Organization, International Fund for Agricultural Development, World Food Programme and UN Women.
Officials said the year-long programme will focus on empowering women farmers, improving access to resources and promoting leadership in food security and climate resilience.
The observance follows a declaration by the United Nations General Assembly recognising 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer to advance inclusive agricultural systems worldwide.
Speaking at the function, Agriculture Secretary Rafiqul I Mohamed described the initiative as “a year of action,” calling for investment and recognition of millions of women contributing to the nation’s food production.
FAO Representative in Bangladesh Jiaoqun Shi reaffirmed support for innovative programmes, including women-led green enterprises and investment initiatives to empower smallholder farmers.
Planned activities include pilot projects such as “GreenRoots Farm Lab,” an agricultural investment forum and a national “Nari Krishak Shommilon,” aimed at enhancing skills, financing and market access.
Stakeholders said the initiative marks a significant step toward building a more inclusive, resilient and sustainable agricultural sector, ensuring women farmers remain central to Bangladesh’s food security and development goals.
