On International Women’s Day 2024, the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) proudly stands alongside the global community in recognizing and celebrating the remarkable contributions of women in driving progress and innovation in agriculture. With a firm belief in the transformative power of gender equality, IITA commemorated the occasion with a series of events highlighting the pivotal role of women in shaping our agricultural landscape.

The festivities commenced with a spirited walk culminating in a gathering at the conference center, IITA headquarters, Ibadan, Nigeria, where female staff members shared inspiring accounts of their professional journeys within IITA. These narratives underscored the organization’s unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that nurtures the talents and aspirations of women in agricultural research and development.

In an interview, Simeon Ehui, Director General of IITA and CGIAR Regional Director for continental Africa, and Kenton Dashiell, Deputy Director General for Partnerships for Delivery (DDG-P4D), reaffirmed the institute’s dedication to empowering women and enhancing their representation in decision-making. Ehui emphasized the importance of equal participation of women at all levels, including board memberships, to propel the organization toward a more equitable and sustainable future.

Lilian Mendoza, Head of People and Culture at IITA, highlighted the indispensable role of women in agricultural production and emphasized the significance of their engagement in research and agribusiness. She articulated the vision of IITA’s mentorship program for women, which aims to guide and support aspiring female leaders. The program, set to commence with a pilot phase accommodating ten mentees and mentors, underscores IITA’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of women leaders in agriculture.

A panel session themed “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress” underscored the critical importance of empowering women as catalysts for development. The session emphasized that investing in women is a moral and economic necessity, essential for fostering inclusive growth and sustainable development across countries.

Adding vibrancy to the celebration, a playlet by the Bioscience Unit showcased the diverse talents and creativity of IITA staff in conveying the message of gender equality and empowerment.

In conclusion, IITA reaffirms its unwavering commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women in agriculture. By championing the inclusion and participation of women at all levels, IITA aims to accelerate progress and drive positive change in agricultural systems worldwide. As we commemorate International Women’s Day, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to creating a more equitable and sustainable future where the contributions of women in agriculture are valued, celebrated, and recognized.

Contributed by Anuoluwapo Oyeleye