Investing in agricultural development has long been recognized as one of the best ways to reduce poverty in the long term, whether the goal is to feed individual families or to help economies grow. Research shows that women in developing countries carry out much of the work with agricultural crops and production. Women are also more likely to use income from these activities for food, healthcare and education for their children, helping lift entire communities out of poverty and achieve sustainable economic growth.
On April 22 in Washington DC, the Society for International Development-Washington will host "The Hidden Role of Gender in Food Security and Value Chain Development." This discussion panel, co-sponsored by CARANA and the QED Group, will focus on successful value chain strategies, particularly those involving women, to boost income and achieve food security. Specific interventions, success stories and private-sector alliances will be discussed in the context of capacity building, access to markets, quality standards and post-harvest handling.