(Vatican Radio) On October 15th we observe the International Day of Rural
Women. Established by the United Nations in 2008, it recognizes “the critical role
and contribution of rural women, including indigenous women, in enhancing agricultural
and rural development, improving food security and eradicating rural poverty.” Rural
women play a critical role in the rural economies of both developed and developing
countries. In most parts of the developing world they participate in crop production
and livestock care, provide food, water and fuel for their families, and engage in
off-farm activities to diversify their families’ livelihoods. In addition, they carry
out vital functions in caring for children, older persons and the sick. Speaking
to Vatican Radio’s Linda Bordoni, Isatou Jallow, the chief of the World Food Programme’s
Gender Unit, says she doesn’t see rural women as being vulnerable, but rather as being
strong and resilient – but too often living in vulnerable situations… Listen
to the interview… Ms
Jallow speaks of the launch of a joint project to empower women farmers around the
world because they are the key to building a more food secure world. She explains
that four UN agencies have joined forces to cooperate for action and change on the
ground. The initiative brings together WFP, UN Women, the Food and Agriculture
Organization (FAO) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)
and aims to empower /a> women as regards food security
in their communities.