The Small Scale Women Farmers Organisation in Nigeria (SWOFON) has called on the government and stakeholders to find a lasting solution to Gender-Based Violence (GBV) affecting women farmers in Nigeria.This appeal was made at a stakeholders’ consultative forum in Abuja on Monday.
Mrs Comfort Sunday, FCT Coordinator of SWOFON, said the organisation sought to address the intersection of hunger and GBV among smallholder women farmers.
Sunday emphasised the need for a coordinated approach to address GBV, including enforcing laws and policies that protect women’s rights and promoting awareness and dialogue within communities.
He highlighted the significant contributions of smallholder women farmers to Nigeria’s agricultural economy, food security, and rural development.
“However, these women face systemic challenges, including GBV, which poses a pervasive and often overlooked obstacle to their productivity and well-being.
“The impact of GBV on women farmers includes physical and psychological harm, economic disempowerment, and interruption of farming activities.”
Sunday stressed that tackling GBV was essential for achieving food security, economic growth, and sustainable development.
“By empowering smallholder women farmers and protecting them from GBV, SWOFON aims to unlock their full potential and build stronger, more resilient communities.”
The organisation, therefore, urged all stakeholders, including the government, civil society, private sector, and individuals, to join in the fight against GBV.(NAN)
