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The IFP in KwaZulu-Natal calls on government to ensure that suitably qualified
rural women farmers are placed at the apex of agricultural research and
scientific innovation to achieve sustainable development and economic growth in
the agricultural sector.

"Women remained marginalised in the areas of technology and innovation that
supports smallholder farming. Women are still grossly under-represented at
policy-making level in agricultural production research and in institutions that
teach science, technology and inoculation," said IFP Spokesperson on
Agriculture, Mr Nhlanhla Msimango, MPL.

"We really need to drive change and involve more women in decision-making. Women
are a critical component in unlocking KZN's potential, but I really wonder why
KZN women are talked about all over in agriculture with very few occupying
decision-making positions. If we do not pay attention to women, they will be
easily forgotten and their potential will be lost. Noting that the failure to
connect agriculture and nutrition is a result of the long marginalisation of
women voices, there is need for women's voices in nutrition, mechanisation and
finances," continued Mr Msimango.

"Government must ensure that women have access to finances to advance
agriculture. We also call for more investments and support of young girls in
agricultural research. In order to awaken the people, it is the women who have
to be given opportunities. Once women are on the move, the family moves, the
village moves, the nation moves,"

concluded Msimango.

Issued by IFP