Pay attention to the gender imbalance associated with National Farmers Day – Guzakuza urges gov’t

Guzakuza, the vanguard for women in agribusiness has raised concern about the seeming gender imbalance associated with the National Farmers Day in Ghana.

In a statement issued by Guzakuza Founder Nana Adjoa Sifa, the organisation is demanding a ‘Gender Equality Focus’ at the 39th National Farmers Day to be celebrated on Friday, December 1.

“Guzakuza calls for immediate attention to the gender imbalance and advocates for a groundbreaking shift in focus during this year's Farmers Day. The organisation demands that smart solutions for sustainable food security and resilience prioritise and address the unique challenges faced by women in agribusiness,” Nana Adjoa A. Sifa said in the statement.

The National Farmers' Day in Ghana is an annual celebration of farmers and fishermen, observed on the first Friday of December.

On Farmers' Day, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture honors with special awards to deserving farmers and fishermen based on their practices and output.

Ghana's flagship agricultural event has been marred by a stark gender imbalance in its history. Over the past two decades, only one woman, Madam Afua Frimponmaa, has claimed the prestigious award in 2004 at the age of 75.

This, Guzakuza insists raises critical questions about inclusivity and opportunities for women in the agricultural sector.

In a bold and unprecedented move, the organisation is pushing for an immediate overhaul of the event's gender dynamics.

According to Guzakuza Founder Nana Adjoa A. Sifa, the outcome of the upcoming Farmers Day will be scrutinised intensely, setting the stage for a provocative dialogue on gender equality in Ghana’s agriculture.

The 39th National Farmers Day will be held tomorrow in Tarkwa under the theme “Delivering Smart Solutions for Sustainable Food Security and Resilience.”

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo will be the Special Guest of Honour.

Read the full statement issued by Guzakuza ahead of the event below:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nana Adjoa Sifa, Founder of Guzakuza Demands Gender Equality Focus at 39th National Farmers Day in Ghana

Accra, Ghana - 30th November, 2023
In a bold and unprecedented move, Guzakuza, the vanguard for women in agribusiness, has thrust the 39th National Farmers Day into the spotlight, demanding an immediate overhaul of the event's gender dynamics. The Founder of Guzakuza, Nana Adjoa A. Sifa has declared that the outcome of the upcoming Farmers Day will be scrutinised intensely, setting the stage for a provocative dialogue on gender equality in Ghana’s agriculture.

Background:
The 39th National Farmers Day is poised to unite farmers and leaders in Tarkwa under the theme 'Delivering Smart Solutions for Sustainable Food Security and Resilience.' However, beneath the surface of this seemingly harmonious gathering lies a glaring gender disparity that has ignited controversy.

Gender Gap:
Ghana's flagship agricultural event has been marred by a stark gender imbalance in its history. Over the past two decades, only one woman, Madam Afua Frimponmaa, has claimed the prestigious award in 2004 at the age of 75. This eyebrow-raising gender gap raises critical questions about inclusivity and opportunities for women in the agricultural sector.

Guzakuza's Call to Action:
Guzakuza calls for immediate attention to the gender imbalance and advocates for a groundbreaking shift in focus during this year's Farmers Day. The organisation demands that smart solutions for sustainable food security and resilience prioritise and address the unique challenges faced by women in agribusiness.

Why it Matters:
The controversial spotlight on gender dynamics in this year's event amplifies the urgency and significance of addressing these imbalances head-on. As Ghana strives for agricultural excellence, it must ensure that women are not only recognised but actively included and celebrated for their pivotal role in the sector.

Guzakuza's Gender Agenda:
Guzakuza envisions a future where the National Farmers Day is not just a celebration of agriculture but a symbol of gender equality in action. The organisation asserts that a more inclusive and equitable platform will not only empower women but also catalyse transformative change in the entire agri-food industry.

For inquiries, please contact:
[email protected]
+233553333942
www.guzakuza.org
About Guzakuza:
Nana Adjoa Sifa Amponsah is the founder of Guzakuza, a pioneering organisation dedicated to advancing women in agribusiness across Africa. With a mission to shatter barriers and foster gender equity in agribusiness by creating opportunities and equipping women with the necessary tools to start and grow their agribusinesses, Guzakuza is committed to transforming the narrative and creating a future where women play a central role in shaping the agricultural landscape.

In the last 8 years, Guzakuza had directly impacted over 8,000 women across 31 African countries and the diaspora. Guzakuza also calls all women to be part of its membership platform WIFAI-Women in Food & Agribusiness Industry.