During the National Forum for Women Farmers (FoNAT 2026) in Lomé, female agricultural leaders are raising their voices to address the hurdles limiting their impact on food security and economic growth. Beyond the discussions lies a shared goal: redefining their influence within national agricultural strategies.
Women are responsible for a massive portion of crop production, manage the processing of raw goods, and keep local markets thriving. Despite this, they continue to face significant barriers regarding land ownership, financial credit, and modern farming equipment. To bring these critical issues to the forefront of public policy, hundreds of rural stakeholders have gathered in Lomé since June 30 for the National Forum for Women Farmers (FoNAT 2026).
This gathering, spearheaded by the Coordination togolaise des organisations paysannes et de producteurs agricoles (CTOP) and the Plateforme nationale des agricultrices du Togo (PNAFAT), coincides with the United Nations’ International Year of Women Farmers in 2026.
Breaking down barriers for female producers
Throughout the sessions, several core challenges have been repeatedly highlighted. Land tenure remains a primary obstacle for rural women, who often grapple with legal, traditional, and economic restrictions that impede their ability to invest in their farms long-term.
The forum is also tackling the need for better credit facilities, the integration of agricultural innovations, and strategies to adapt to climate change. Furthermore, there is a strong focus on enhancing the processing and marketing of local products to ensure they reach wider audiences.
For the attendees, these factors are essential for achieving economic independence and boosting the role of women in ensuring Togo maintains its food sovereignty.
Showcasing local expertise and products
Running alongside the main event, a mini-fair is spotlighting the work of female agri-entrepreneurs. This exhibition serves as a platform to promote locally processed goods while fostering networking opportunities between producers, buyers, and various development partners.
More than just a display, this initiative demonstrates the organizers’ commitment to linking high-level strategy with the practical economic realities of the field, showcasing the immense potential within female-led agricultural businesses.
A global effort for local impact
FoNAT 2026 is supported by a diverse group of technical and financial partners, including the Basque Cooperation, the World Rural Forum, the Food System Resilience Program (FSRP) in Togo, the AgSyS/GIZ project, Carrefour International Canada, the FAO, and GIZ.
Through this mobilization, organizers aim to generate concrete recommendations that will shape future public policies for rural women. As agriculture remains a cornerstone of the Togolese economy, empowering female farmers is now viewed as a vital necessity for regional resilience, income generation, and the sustainable future of the nation’s food systems.
