THE FUSE

Women farmers continue to play a central role in food production and rural livelihoods across South Africa, yet many still face barriers that limit their access to resources, technology and markets. A recent stakeholder engagement held in Bushbuckridge brought these realities into focus through a collaborative effort led by the Agricultural Research Council alongside the Commission for Gender Equality. The gathering created a space where women farmers, researchers and development partners could meet on equal footing to discuss challenges and practical solutions. The focus remained on how research and innovation can directly support women-led agricultural enterprises in meaningful ways. The event highlighted the growing recognition that empowering women in agriculture strengthens entire communities and improves long-term food security.