The women of Southern Africa work together to build communities without gender-based violence.
In rural agricultural settings, deeply ingrained social and economic inequalities perpetuate cycles of harm that hinder development. Gender-based violence (GBV) not only affects the individuals involved, it disrupts the trust and collaboration essential for sustainable supply chains. Solidaridad is working to dismantle these barriers through education, awareness, and action.
“To address GBV, we must challenge harmful norms and create environments where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected,” says Precious Greehy, Head of Gender and Youth at Solidaridad. Greehy is taking this message across Southern Africa to share the stories of women affected by GBV, and the impact this has on the region.
Integrating Gender Equity into Agriculture
Solidaridad integrates GBV awareness into its agricultural programmes to create healthier relationships and advocate for fairness within farming communities. Solidaridad’s work to encourage the participation of women in agriculture includes:
- Hosting a series of inclusion dialogues across Southern Africa to understand the systemic barriers that prevent women from engaging in business opportunities and farm-related decision-making.
- The launch of a policy on gender in Malawi’s tea sector to build safer workplaces for all, and including the training for gender champions and the distribution of an anti-harassment manual.
- The encouragement of young women in South Africa to participate as entrepreneurs in the country’s horticulture sector.
- Placing a special emphasis on the participation of women in ‘impact investments’ in Zambia.
“By equipping farmers, workers, and their families with knowledge and tools, we create supportive environments that enable inclusive development and community transformation,” says Humphrey Nxumalo, Head of Programmes for Solidaridad Southern Africa.
A Strategic Approach for Sustainable Communities
Gender-based violence not only violates fundamental human rights but also disrupts the trust, collaboration, and resilience that are vital for strong farming communities and sustainable supply chains.
Precious Greehy, Head of Gender and Youth at Solidarida
“Ending gender-based violence is both a moral and strategic imperative for building sustainable supply chains,” emphasizes Shungu Kanyemba, Managing Director of Solidaridad Southern Africa. “We are fostering environments where women, youth, and entire communities can thrive, ensuring dignity and safety for all stakeholders.”
Through partnerships with governments, organizations, and local communities, Solidaridad continues to amplify the voices of farming women and advocate for policies that prioritize gender equity.
Our efforts to dismantle the barriers that prevent women from fully participating in the agricultural sector, will lead to more resilient communities, more sustainable agricultural ecosystems, and improved livelihoods for women working in agriculture.
Find more coverage of Solidaridad’s work on GBV awareness building here:
- Solidaridad Champions the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in Southern Africa, 247 Malawi
- Gender policy to combat sexual harassment in tea sector launched, Kilimo News
