As a feminist-driven organization, Women in Agriculture for Sustainable Development (WASUDEV) is actively participating in this year’s 16 Days of Activism, joining global efforts to combat gender-based violence. WASUDEV acknowledges the ongoing challenges faced by women and girls in Liberia, including in the agriculture sector.

Advocacy and Commitment

WASUDEV’s Executive Director, Hawa Dunor-Varney, emphasized the organization’s commitment to advocating for the rights and protection of women and girls. She highlighted WASUDEV’s readiness to initiate or collaborate with other organizations to address violence and ensure safety for women and girls both in Liberia and beyond.

Women’s Contributions in Agriculture

In Liberia, women make significant contributions to agriculture, accounting for over 60% of the agricultural labor force. This includes 76% of the labor for cash crop production, 93% for food crop production, and 85% for marketing and trading. Despite these vital roles, women farmers continue to encounter numerous structural and technical barriers, such as limited access to land, information, finance, infrastructure, technologies, and markets.

Structural Violence and Barriers

The persistent gender norms and discrimination related to land ownership and resource access deny women their socio-economic, civil, and political rights. This structural violence hinders their ability to fully participate in and benefit from the agriculture sector.

Call to Action

During the 16 Days of Activism, WASUDEV urges everyone to unite in the fight against gender-based violence and work towards removing the barriers that women face. The organization continues its mission to improve the living conditions of women and girls in rural communities through human solidarity, agribusiness development, local economic empowerment, and advocating for women’s representation in decision-making processes.