On the evening of October 14, 2024, women from various walks of life and regions of Uganda convened in Mbale City for the Women’s Camp Fire, a prelude to the Women in Agriculture (WiA) Conference. This gathering aimed to strengthen solidarity among women small-scale farmers through storytelling, music, and shared experiences. The atmosphere was vibrant, filled with traditional Ugandan music, dancing, and a feast that created a warm and beautiful ambience, allowing participants to connect and network.
The campfire served as a safe space for women to share their stories, highlighting the challenges they face in agriculture. Key issues discussed included gender-based violence (GBV), theft of agricultural produce, social exclusion, lack of access to resources and market information, poor implementation of protective policies, and the impacts of climate change. Many women recounted experiences of GBV, which hinders their participation in agriculture and decision-making. They described domestic violence and harassment, which not only left them feeling vulnerable and marginalized but also limited continued production since they usually flee their homes for safety. The theft of crops was another significant concern, as women reported frequent losses that not only affected their finances but also their security. Social exclusion was also a major concern, where women often feel unrecognized and sidelined in agricultural leadership roles.
"Gender-based violence doesn’t just bruise our bodies; it steals our power and silences our potential. How can we feed a nation when we can’t even feel safe in our own homes? We need systems that protect us from violence so we can continue to grow and thrive." Apio Lillian, ESAFF Nwoya.
Women expressed frustration over barriers to land ownership, particularly the fact that their husbands rent out their land to them at a fee, despite the land being intended for home production. Access to credit and agricultural inputs is also still a huddle. The lack of market information further compounded their struggles, forcing many to sell their produce at low prices due to exploitation by middlemen. Participants also highlighted the poor enforcement of existing policies designed to protect women, leaving them unprotected in cases of GBV, land disputes, and access to agricultural support.
"It’s heartbreaking when the land I should use to feed my family is rented out to me by my own husband. We need more than access; we need ownership, respect, and equality." Akol Catherine, ESAFF Ngora.
Climate change emerged as a critical issue, with women discussing the adverse effects of unpredictable weather patterns on their livelihoods. They emphasized the need for climate-resilient agricultural practices and policies tailored to the needs of small-scale farmers.
"Climate change is disrupting our lives; with changing seasons, our harvests are always at stake. I am here to be part of the solution, leading with resilient practices that protect both our farms and our families." Mugisha Lydia, ESAFF Kisoro.
Despite these challenges, the campfire created a sense of solidarity and empowerment among participants. The act of storytelling not only allowed women to share their struggles but also served as a source of inspiration and encouragement to advocate for change. Networking opportunities flourished as women exchanged ideas and formed partnerships, strengthening their community ties. The event was crowned with a symbolic act where each woman added an object to the campfire, representing their collective commitment to advocate for change and amplify women’s voices in agriculture.
Here is a short video about the WiA Conference:
"Each story shared tonight is a flame. Together, we are lighting the path to justice, resilience, and change. We are no longer voiceless, no longer alone." Hajjat Nakakande Mariam, ESAFF Masaka.
Several recommendations emerged from the discussions, including the need for stronger enforcement of protective policies, increased access to resources and market information, and systems to protect women against exploitation. Additionally, promoting climate-resilient farming practices and supporting women’s leadership in agriculture were deemed essential. Establishing support systems for victims of GBV was also highlighted as crucial for ensuring justice and protection.
The Women’s Camp Fire was more than just a storytelling event; it celebrated resilience and collective action. Participants left with renewed solidarity, new friendships, and a determination to continue advocating for a more equitable agricultural sector. The themes and lessons from this gathering are expected to shape discussions at the WiA Conference, ensuring that women’s voices remain central to the movement for agricultural transformation.
Story written by: Ritah Namirimu
Kommentare