IWD2023: Empowering Women in Agriculture through Innovation

Marginalization, and the digital divide which currently plagues our part of the world has heightened the need to find new ways of doing things. The goal is to be able to balance the rights and responsibilities of women and men and create an equal society. As International Women’s Day is being commemorated across the globe, an introspection of how innovation can realistically bridge the equality gap, especially in Agri-Technology, to promote a fair and equal world is a paramount conversation.

One of our mandates at Kosmos Innovation Centre (KIC) is to unlock and amplify the various ways women can leverage innovation to thrive to foster a positive change of attitude towards the potential of their gender. The organization also envisions a society devoid of gender stereotypes and attitudes toward women and provides new platforms for voices that champion gender equality.

Despite our accelerated effort in amplifying the female narrative, it is undeniable that the digital divide still exists, and most women in Ghana still lack access to digital resources, which has become the beacon of hope. Unfortunately, this means many women in Ghana are still excluded from the opportunities that digital technology can provide.

This year’s International Women’s Day theme, “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality,” is particularly relevant as the world becomes increasingly digital. Kosmos Innovation Center is helping to increase the participation of women in the innovation and technology industry and to close the gender gap in this important sector.

The KIC mandate

At KIC, we imagine a gender-equal world, free of discrimination and stereotypes. We want to erase the narrative of Ghanaian women who do not venture into agriculture simply because they perceive it as a traditionally male-dominated field. The negative cultural perceptions associated with women who choose agriculture as a career path have discouraged many women from exploring opportunities in this field.

KIC, in partnership with Mastercard Foundation through the Young Africa Works recognizes these barriers and is committed to ensuring gender equality in the agriculture sector in Ghana. KIC, through the women’s boot camp, is increasing the interest of young women in agriculture. We achieve this by partnering with women-focused organizations and women student leaders in universities. The program provides capacity-building and practical skills training for students and graduates, invest in changing the mindset and perceptions of young people, and position agripreneurship as an exciting career choice for women.

Clarion call

The Digital divide still exists, and women in many parts of the world still lack access to digital resources. This International Women’s Day is a perfect time to reflect on our progress toward gender equality. Undoubtedly, we still have a long way to go, but thanks to innovation and technology, we’re making headway. From advances in agriculture that allow women farmers to thrive to entrepreneurship programs that support women-owned businesses, there’s much to be optimistic about. As we strive for balance in our workplaces and communities, let’s not forget the power of technology in helping us achieve equity.

As we mark International Women’s Day 2023, let’s remember that gender equality is not a privilege, but a right. So let’s commit to doing our part to ensure that all women, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to reach their full potential.