Hundreds of women farmers from across Togo have gathered in Lomé for the National Forum of Togolese Women Farmers (FoNAT 2026), a landmark gathering aimed at amplifying their voices in shaping the nation’s agricultural future.
Lomé — July 1, 2026 — From June 30, women who form the backbone of Togo’s agricultural sector have convened in Lomé to address persistent barriers that have long restricted their full participation in food security and economic development. Despite contributing significantly to local food production and market supply chains, many continue to face systemic challenges in accessing land, financing, and modern agricultural technologies.
Breaking down barriers to agricultural progress
The forum, organized by the Togolese Coordination of Peasant and Agricultural Producer Organizations (CTOP) and the National Platform of Women Farmers in Togo (PNAFAT), coincides with the United Nations’ International Year of Women Farmers, underscoring a global recognition of their pivotal role.
Key discussions revolve around four core challenges: securing land rights, improving access to agricultural financing, integrating climate-resilient farming practices, and scaling up local product transformation and commercialization. Participants argue that addressing these issues is essential to unlocking greater economic independence and strengthening Togo’s food systems.
Showcasing local innovation and enterprise
A dedicated exhibition at the forum highlights a diverse range of products crafted by women-led agricultural enterprises. This marketplace not only celebrates their craftsmanship but also creates vital bridges between producers, buyers, and potential investors. By connecting grassroots realities with policy discussions, the event emphasizes the untapped economic potential of women in agriculture.
Building momentum for policy change
Supported by international partners including the Basque Cooperation, the Global Forum on Rural Advisory Services, and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), FoNAT 2026 is more than a discussion platform—it’s a call to action. Organizers are pushing for concrete policy recommendations that can inform government strategies aimed at empowering rural women. With agriculture remaining a cornerstone of Togo’s economy, the forum underscores that investing in women farmers is not just a matter of equity, but a strategic lever for national resilience, food security, and sustainable growth.
