Ogun State has officially launched the SheFarmers Initiative, a program aimed at providing crucial support to female farmers in the region.
The inauguration of this initiative garnered praise from key government officials, including Mr. Samuel Adeogun, the Permanent Secretary of the Ogun State Ministry of Agriculture, who attended the event.
Mr. Adeogun commended the SheFarmers Initiative and pledged the government’s commitment to connecting these female farmers with various opportunities within the agricultural sector.
He reaffirmed the state government’s dedication, under the leadership of Prince Dapo Abiodun, to enhance the livelihoods of its citizens and foster their active participation in agriculture.
The Permanent Secretary highlighted previous successful initiatives that empowered women in the cassava value chain by providing them with production inputs and financial support.
IDEAS CENTRE launches SheFarmers initiative
He also revealed plans for budget allocation to further strengthen the role of women in agriculture.
In his inaugural address, Mr. Olusegun Dada, the Managing Director of IDEAS CENTRE, underscored the immense potential of the SheFarmers initiative in promoting women’s involvement in agribusiness.
He emphasized the crucial role women play in sustainable development programs, citing their creditworthiness, stability, and family-oriented nature as attributes that make them indispensable drivers of economic growth.
Mr. Dada stated, “IDEAS Centre recognizes women as cornerstones of sustainability.”
Alhaja Olukemi Ogunmoye, the SheFarmers Initiative Coordinator for Ogun State, emphasized the pivotal role of women in advancing innovation and technology within the agricultural sector.
She highlighted that the integration of technology, education, and innovations empowers women to drive sustainable agricultural practices, stimulate rural economies, and ensure food security. She stressed, “Women serve as catalysts for progress in the agricultural sector.”
Mr. Rotimiolu Akinlesi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, assured the SheFarmers of the State Government’s unwavering support.
He encouraged them to embrace innovation, modern technologies, and effective advocacy to voice their needs and concerns.
Temitope Ande, the National President of the SheFarmers Initiative, advocated for robust support for women in agriculture, particularly those in rural areas.
She emphasized the importance of enabling these women to adopt mechanized farming techniques and modern agricultural technologies.
She stressed the need for viable markets for their products and services and called for measures to enhance the economic viability of agriculture.