Hundreds of women from Togo’s agricultural sector gathered in Lomé to champion their pivotal role in reshaping the country’s farming future. The Forum national de l’agricultrice togolaise (FoNAT 2026), running from June 30 to July 1, 2026, serves as a bold platform for rural women to voice their challenges and advocate for structural changes that will amplify their impact on food security and economic growth.
Organized by the Coordination togolaise des organisations paysannes et de producteurs agricoles (CTOP) and the Plateforme nationale des agricultrices du Togo (PNAFAT), the event aligns with the United Nations’ International Year of the Woman Farmer in 2026—a global recognition of the indispensable contributions women make to agriculture.
Breaking barriers in agricultural leadership
Despite their central role in food production, processing, and local market supply, women farmers face persistent obstacles. Limited access to land ownership, financial resources, and modern agricultural technologies remains a critical hurdle. Discussions at FoNAT 2026 underscore these challenges while exploring solutions to enhance women’s economic autonomy and their ability to adapt to climate change.
The forum’s agenda highlights key priorities:
- Land rights: Addressing legal, cultural, and economic barriers that restrict women’s access to farmland.
- Financial inclusion: Expanding credit and funding opportunities tailored to women-led agricultural enterprises.
- Agricultural innovation: Promoting the adoption of climate-smart technologies and high-yield farming techniques.
- Market access: Strengthening supply chains for locally processed goods and connecting producers with buyers.
Showcasing local expertise and economic potential
A dedicated exhibition during the forum spotlights processed agricultural products created by women entrepreneurs. This initiative not only celebrates their skills but also fosters direct business connections between producers, investors, and retail partners. By bridging the gap between policy discussions and market realities, the event demonstrates the tangible economic impact of women’s leadership in agriculture.
Global collaboration for local progress
FoNAT 2026 enjoys support from a coalition of international partners, including the Basque Cooperation, Rural World Forum, Food System Resilience Program (FSRP) Togo, AgSyS/GIZ, Carrefour International Canada, the FAO, and GIZ. Together, these organizations aim to translate the forum’s outcomes into actionable policies that empower rural women, ensuring their voices shape Togo’s agricultural agenda.
As agriculture remains the backbone of Togo’s economy, empowering women farmers is no longer optional—it’s a strategic imperative. By addressing systemic barriers and unlocking their potential, the forum seeks to bolster food security, stimulate rural economies, and build resilience against climate-related disruptions.