Every October 15th, the International Day of Rural Women gives us the opportunity to celebrate and recognize the essential role women play in agricultural development and food security. On this occasion, the The Congolese Alert for the Environment and Human Rights (ACEDH) pays tribute to these courageous women who, every day, nourish not only their families but also entire communities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
These rural women, often invisible to the world, are the true pillars of society. Their hard work in the fields, resource management, and ancestral knowledge are crucial for building a sustainable future. They deserve encouragement and applause for their determination and resilience in the face of daily challenges.
However, for their potential to be fully realized, it is crucial to support legal and institutional reforms that guarantee their rights to land. Secure and equitable access to land is vital for these women to play their leading role in the responsible management of land resources. It is time to recognize that food security and the preservation of biodiversity largely depend on their involvement and autonomy.
In the DRC, these women are also at the crossroads of tradition and innovation. They hold invaluable knowledge about sustainable land management and forest preservation, which are essential for combating climate change. Customary land rights must be rethought to foster cooperation among communities and ensure that land is used to nourish rather than divide.
The ACEDH also calls for accountability from decision-makers and investors, especially in the mining sector, to consider the impact of their activities on these women. In exploiting natural resources, it is imperative to preserve agricultural lands, which are vital for the survival of rural families.
On this special day, let us honor all the women who work tirelessly to ensure the food security of our world. Their contribution is invaluable, and it is time we support them and grant them the respect and rights they deserve. Together, let us amplify their voices and ensure a future where rural women are recognized and valued for their crucial role in society.
By kilalopress
