A group of veteran and upcoming women scientists in Kenya under AWARD (African Women in Agricultural Research and Department) programme have urged African leaders and US policy makers to put women at the centre of efforts to address hunger and poverty in sub-Saharan Africa.
During the recent visit by US Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton and Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack to research facilities outside Nairobi, the group argued that only if women can exert more influence over priorities, policies and programmes will sub-Saharan Africa be able to ward off future food crises and cope effectively with frequent drought and other impacts of climate change. “The outstanding achievements of the women of the AWARD programme serve as a model and inspiration to women farmers all over Africa,” Vilsack said in response to AWARD members. “As part of President Barack Obama’s initiative to help millions become food secure, a focus on women farmers will be an important and integral part of this effort.”
Africa / Biotechnology / Kenya
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