Kigali Workshop: Strengthening Rural Women Leadership

The Pan-African Farmers Organization (PAFO) is proud to continue its Women Farmers Leadership Program with a workshop in Kigali, Rwanda, from November 18-22, 2024. This workshop gathers women leaders from across Africa and Germany to strengthen their roles in agricultural leadership, advocacy, and resource management. With support from the Andreas Hermes Academy (AHA) and the German Rural Women’s Association, the program is a unique initiative to develop female role models in the agricultural sector and address the resource challenges faced by women farmers.

African and German Women at the Workshop in Munich, Germany (May2024)

Agriculture is central to economic growth in Africa, particularly in rural areas, where women make up the majority of the labor force and play vital roles in food security and household income. However, women farmers often face substantial challenges in accessing land, finance, and training. The Women Leaders Program in African agriculture seeks to address these gaps through targeted skills development and collaborative experiences. During the Kigali workshop, participants will engage in several skill-building activities:

  • Leadership Development Sessions covering active listening, time management, and teamwork to enhance interpersonal and organizational skills.
  • Negotiation and Advocacy Training to equip participants with tools for effectively advocating for women’s issues within farmers’ organizations and policy environments.
  • Field Visit to the INGABO Syndicate for hands-on experience in a successful agricultural cooperative, highlighting sustainable practices and cooperative management.

Workshop, Munigh, Germany

The program culminates with a certification ceremony recognizing each participant’s commitment and achievements. By the end of the workshop, these women leaders will be better equipped to initiate positive change in their regions, fostering resilience and productivity across Africa’s agricultural sector.