Dr Maryam Mariya, the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, announced a comprehensive suite of initiatives designed to empower women within the agricultural sector. These announcements coincide with the global celebration of International Women's Day.
In her message, Minister Mariya detailed the administration's plans to boost women's participation and opportunities in agriculture. Among the initiatives is the creation of a fund to provide financial assistance to female-led agricultural startups that harness modern technologies and innovative solutions. Underscoring the importance of resilience, she proposed the promotion of climate-resilient agricultural practices and the provision of specialised training programmes for women in the sector.
Committed to further support, Minister Mariya also pledged to allocate farming land and essential resources to women pursuing careers in agriculture. She underscored the administration's dedication to eradicating gender disparities and ensuring equality. "Women play a pivotal role in ensuring national food security, environmental sustainability, and economic stability," she stated. "I call upon everyone to ensure that the agricultural sector offers equal opportunities for women."
Minister Mariya's message also extended her best wishes to all women in honour of International Women's Day, highlighting the significant contributions of women in both the fisheries and agricultural sectors. The administration's commitment to empowering women extends beyond agriculture. Priorities include enhanced employment prospects, allowances for single parents, and work-from-home options for women.