The IITA Southern Africa Hub marked International Women’s Day with vibrant celebrations across its stations, showcasing the pivotal role of women in shaping the future of agriculture.
In Malawi, the station organized a symbolic one-kilometer walk, echoing the year’s theme, “Invest in women: Accelerate progress.” The march resonated with the popular struggle signature tune “Tiyende pamodzi” (let’s walk together), famously associated with the late former President of Zambia, Kenneth Kaunda. Director of the Department of Agriculture Research Services, Dr Grace Kaudzu, joined the walk, commending IITA’s initiative and shared interest in formally participating in the next year’s celebration.
In Mozambique, the Nampula station invited representatives from four institutions to participate in the celebration—Agronomic University Mussa Bin Bique with three women representatives (one teacher and two students), Agrotechnical Institute (ITPAM) with seven women representatives (two teachers and five students), Oruwera Partner (Seeds Production Company) with two women (the Director and the Administrator), and Mozambique Agricultural Research Institute (IIAM) with two interns.
IITA Country Representative Steve Boahen emphasized the importance of the day and encouraged women and students to explore various aspects of agriculture, including agribusiness and microbiology. He highlighted IITA’s commitment to promoting women’s prominence in available vacancies.
Director of Oruwera Company, Engr Emilia Chaimite, shared how the institution has provided job opportunities for women in various areas, leading to positive impacts. She mentioned cultural barriers as one of the challenges encountered in trying to empower women but expressed optimism for progress.
Dulce João, a Mussa Bin Bique University professor, stated that investing in women implies changing attitudes towards culture and customs, giving opportunities, and fighting for gender equality. “Investing in women is the same as investing in the future, and this will bring results that could change the world,” he said.
During the debate session moderated by Matina Felizardo Neves of IITA, Engr Chaimite highlighted the importance of understanding gender equality to avoid misunderstanding. She also emphasized the need for education to reach both men and women and achieve societal balance.
ITPAM professor Marta José emphasized the institution’s efforts to encourage women to continue studying agronomy, including providing facilities for paying tuition fees for mothers. An ITPAM student also encouraged women to believe in themselves and their potential, stating that only then would their value be seen.
The event concluded with participants touring IITA’s laboratory and the Institute’s field.
Contributed by Ochuwa Favour Daramola
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