Female farmers take on Farm Africa cycling challenge

Twelve women from the UK farming industry will cycle 75km in five days across Embu Country in Kenya later this month, collaborating with local female farmers to learn about and promote regenerative agriculture.

Run by development charity Farm Africa, the GROW for Good Challenge also aims to raise £75,000 to support sustainable farming practices and economic empowerment for women across eastern Africa.

See also: International agriculture – prospects for Guinea

GROW stands for Growing Resilience and Opportunities for Women, and the funds will help enhance access to resources, improve farming techniques, and support sustainable income generation.

Judith Batchelor, chair of the charity, emphasised the significance of the challenge.

“The GROW for Good Challenge will raise funds that will make a tangible difference to the lives of female farmers and their families across eastern Africa,” she said.

“Just as importantly, it will raise awareness of how, when women have more economic opportunities, it helps whole communities to grow and prosper.”

Activities

Setting off on 20 October, the team will engage in hands-on activities on local farms, exchanging knowledge with Kenyan women farmers, and learning from their experiences.

At the end of the five-day challenge, the women will participate in a roundtable event with female industry leaders in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, to raise awareness about fostering positive change for women in the global food system.

This will highlight the importance of gender empowerment in farming, particularly in regions like eastern Africa, where women are often the backbone of agricultural communities.

The team will engage in hands-on activities on local farms, exchanging knowledge with Kenyan women farmers  © Farm Africa/Brian Ongoro

Male-centred

Libby Plumb, head of communications at Farm Africa, said: “As in the UK, farming has traditionally been a male-centred industry.

“That’s why Farm Africa emphasises ensuring women have access to all aspects of the industry.”

She explained that the organisation focuses on helping women gain access to finance and crucial training.

“Women have often been excluded from gaining knowledge about farming, and we want to change that,” Ms Plumb said.

“We want women to have the same opportunities. This resonates with the British women taking part in October. It’s inspiring for us all to support female farmers in Africa.”

Climate change

Farm Africa’s initiatives, particularly this one, focus on empowering women and young farmers to flourish in the face of climate change and economic challenges.

Kate Taylor from ABP Food Group is one of the UK participants in the challenge. She said: “I believe it’s crucial to support female farmers in Eastern Africa.

“By providing them with the tools and opportunities they need, we’re helping them create a better future for their families and communities.”

The project has already raised over £23,000 towards its £75,000 target. To find out more and donate, visit the Farm Africa Just Giving webpage.