Women are less represented than men in agricultural research and are making slower progress. CORAF, in collaboration with the AICCRA project (Accelerating the Impact of CGIAR Climate Research for Africa), has initiated a regional meeting from 20 to 24 March 2023 in Dakar to develop the knowledge and skills necessary for the advancement of women in agricultural research and development in the context of climate adaptation and mitigation.

Over the course of a week, more than 25 leading women researchers in the fields of agriculture and climate research from across the continent took part in this major regional training course.

Speaking at the workshop on women’s leadership in agriculture and climate research held in Dakar, Dr Mariame Maïga, regional gender adviser at CORAF, deplored the fact that the potential of women scientists to contribute to the debate on climate change and find solutions, while influencing policies, is under-exploited.

“According to various data and reports, women accounted for only 25% of agricultural scientists in Africa over the last decade, and a much smaller proportion of decision-makers on agriculture and climate change at institutional, national and global levels. And this situation has not improved significantly in recent years“, she insisted.

For Dr Zougmoré Robert, Regional Coordinator AICCRA, there is a glaring lack of women leaders in the decision-making spheres, and even in research into agriculture and climate change.

“Our aim is therefore to encourage women working in this field to assume their responsibilities, through appropriate and specific training that will help them to become decision-makers“, explained Prof Zougmoré.

This regional workshop on women’s leadership in agriculture and climate research is a crucial step towards greater gender equality and strengthening the role of women in agriculture. By supporting their experience and promoting their career development, this event is an important step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable environment in which women can contribute their expertise and play an active role in agricultural and climate research. Moreover, by closing this gender gap, Africa will be able to meet the growing food needs of its population.

CORAF and the Accelerating the Impact of CGIAR Climate Research for Africa (AICCRA) project are promoting the entry and advancement of women in agricultural and climate research, by strengthening their skills and providing them with leadership opportunities.

Author

Christel Kenou, Communications Manager, West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development (CORAF)