Gathered in Lomé for the National Forum of Togolese Female Farmers (FoNAT 2026), women in the agricultural sector are raising their voices to address the primary obstacles hindering their impact on food security and economic growth. This gathering reflects a shared drive to redefine their influence within national agricultural strategies.

 

Lomé, July 1, 2026 – While they manage a significant portion of crop production, handle product processing, and supply local markets, women still face major hurdles regarding land ownership, financial credit, and modern agricultural tools. To bring these critical issues to the forefront of public policy, hundreds of rural stakeholders have been meeting in Lomé since June 30 for the National Forum of Togolese Female Farmers (FoNAT 2026).

This event, coordinated by the Coordination togolaise des organisations paysannes et de producteurs agricoles (CTOP) and the Plateforme nationale des agricultrices du Togo (PNAFAT), coincides with the International Year of Female Farmers as designated by the United Nations for 2026.

Breaking down barriers for rural women

Throughout the sessions, several core themes have emerged. Land access remains a persistent challenge for rural women, who often grapple with legal, traditional, or financial restrictions that prevent them from scaling their agricultural investments.

The forum is also focusing on improving financial inclusion, promoting the use of innovative farming techniques, adapting to climate change, and expanding the processing and sale of local agricultural goods.

Participants emphasize that these factors are essential for achieving greater economic independence and ensuring women can contribute more effectively to Togo’s national food security goals.

Showcasing local expertise and products

Alongside the formal discussions, a mini-exhibition is highlighting processed goods created by female entrepreneurs. This platform serves to promote local production while facilitating networking between producers, buyers, and various development partners.

This initiative demonstrates the organizers’ commitment to linking high-level strategy with the practical economic realities of the field, showcasing the immense potential of women-led agricultural enterprises.

A collaborative effort for sustainable change

The FoNAT 2026 is supported by a variety of technical and financial partners, including the Basque Cooperation, the World Rural Forum, the Food Systems Resilience Program (FSRP) in Togo, the AgSyS/GIZ project, Carrefour International Canada, the FAO, and the GIZ.

Through this collective action, organizers aim to generate actionable proposals that can shape future government policies for rural women. As agriculture remains a cornerstone of the Togolese economy, empowering female farmers is now viewed as a vital necessity for ensuring food security, boosting income, and building resilient communities in the face of climate challenges.