By Josephine Sesay
On International Women’s Day 2025, Sierra Leone celebrated the transformative impact of the Agriculture Value Chain Development Project (AVDP) in empowering women through sustainable agriculture. With the support of the Government of Sierra Leone, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the Adaptation Fund, and the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID), AVDP is driving change by improving food security, enhancing climate resilience, and securing economic independence for women across the country.
The AVDP initiative targets 43,000 households, ensuring that at least 40% of beneficiaries are women. Through innovative land use agreements, more than 4,000 women have gained access to 1-hectare cocoa and oil palm farms, paving the way for financial stability and long-term agricultural success. This initiative not only strengthens their economic standing but also contributes to the nation’s broader climate adaptation and food security goals.
To mark the occasion, AVDP partnered with the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs-SL and other key stakeholders in Freetown to celebrate under the global theme: “For All Women and Girls’ Rights Equality, Empowerment.” The event showcased the collaborative efforts of government agencies, development partners, and community leaders in advancing gender equality and sustainable development.
Addressing the gathering, AVDP’s project manager emphasized the organization’s unwavering commitment to fostering women’s leadership in agriculture. “By providing women with access to land, resources, and training, we are not only securing their futures but also strengthening entire communities,” the manager stated.
The celebration featured discussions on policy reforms, success stories from women farmers, and commitments to further promote gender equity in agriculture. Participants underscored the importance of continued investment in women’s economic empowerment, recognizing it as a key driver of national development.
As Sierra Leone moves towards a more inclusive future, AVDP remains steadfast in its mission to empower women through education, economic opportunities, and leadership roles. Together, stakeholders reaffirmed their dedication to breaking barriers and cultivating dreams, ensuring a greener, more equitable future for all.
