Global summit in Cape Town spotlights gender equality in agriculture

The Gender in Food, Land and Water Systems conference is set to unite scientists, researchers and practitioners in Cape Town this October, focusing on empowering women and youth in agriculture.

The 500 experts will explore evidence-based solutions for inclusive and equitable food, land, and water practices.

Under the theme 'Accelerating Equality in Food, Land and Water Systems: Driving Solutions through Evidence and Learning, the conference marks a pivotal moment as the world celebrates 30 years since the Beijing Declaration on women’s rights.

Surita Sandosham, President and CEO of Heifer International, says their presence at the global summit aims to end hunger and poverty, while caring for the Earth by working with smallholder farmer families to increase their income and productivity through value chains.

"We know that by working with farmers that most of them are women... and women are the backbone of the agriculture sector. So for us, being at this conference is really about coming together to learn about the different solutions that different organisations are engaging in and doing through evidence and learning."

"If there is a solution, it's ensuring that you're investing in the women and youth so that they reach resilient and thriving lives."

To listen to Surita Sandosham in conversation with Clarence Ford on CapeTalk's Views and News show, click on the audio below: