Women Change-makers in Africa: Insights and Experiences for Food System Transformation
The "Women Change-makers in Africa" panel is part of the GIZ Knowledge Centre for Organic Agriculture and Agroecology in Africa (KCOA), in partnership with IFOAM Organics International (Organic Academy). This panel highlights the transformative power of women in driving food system sustainability. Through initiatives focused on organic agriculture and agroecology, KCOA empowers women by equipping them with skills, knowledge, and resources to challenge societal norms and boost food security.
The session discussed the challenges of a planet in multiple crisis, particularly those that impact women in agriculture. The session highlighted opportunities to advance solutions through organic agriculture and agroecology, from farm practices to policymaking, as seen through the perspectives of women change-makers driving food system transformation. The diverse examples from Africa brought inspirations for action across the globe. Their perspectives aimed to foster knowledge exchange and spark cross-fertilisation of ideas on gender within organic agriculture and agroecology—critical dimensions for creating impactful solutions in our interconnected world.
Session Highlights
The session began with insights from IFOAM-Organics International on the level of transformation in the food system, followed by an introduction to the KCOA project.
Panellists include a master trainer, a young businesswoman, a policy advocate, and a multiplier—all illustrating how knowledge dissemination transforms communities. Their experiences showcased scalable models for empowering women in organic agriculture and creating sustainable livelihoods while addressing ecological boundaries.
- Busisiwe Abegail Mgangxela – KHSA, South Africa, Director, Bafo and Busi Organic Farming, change-maker from the farm-level
- Olusola Sowemimo – KHWA, Nigeria, Agri entrepreneur, Ope Farms, change-maker in marketing and organic farm-business models
- Esther Kagai – KHEA, Kenya, Director, Community Sustainable Agriculture and Healthy Environmental Program CSHEP, change-maker in advocacy and policy influence
- Naglaa Ahmed – KHNA, Egypt, Project Manager, Heliopolis University for Sustainable Development, Change-maker for co-creation of knowledge
Why Women Matter in Agriculture
Gender equality is a cornerstone of global food security. Iif women farmers had equal access to resources, global hunger could be significantly reduced. The KCOA approach actively bridges this gap by recognizing, valuing, and amplifying the vital contributions of women in agriculture.
This session showcased a shared commitment to advancing gender equality alongside ecological resilience and sustainable food systems. By elevating the voices of African women, it ignites inspiration for a global transformation toward inclusivity and sustainability in agriculture.