UN agencies launch initiative to support rural women's role in food security
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Four agencies joining forces to empower rural women
Four UN entities have joined together to empower rural women through a programme that promotes economic integration and food security.
Women comprise up to 70 per cent of the agricultural workforce in some countries, and the five-year programme aims to increase incomes and enhance participation in rural institutions, including at the leadership level.
Charles Appel reports.
The programme is an initiative of UN Women and three other UN agencies which work on food and agriculture.
It initially will be launched in seven countries: Ethiopia, Guatemala, Kyrgyzstan, Liberia, Nepal, Niger and Rwanda.
UN Women Executive Director Michelle Bachelet says food security is enhanced when women can claim their rights and access to land.
The other agencies involved in the programme are the Food and Agriculture Organization, the International Fund for Agricultural Development and the World Food Programme.
Charles Appel, United Nations
Duration: 37″
