Ugandan women, through the African Women in Animal Resources Farming and Agribusiness Network (AWARFA-N), are playing a central role in strengthening Africa’s feed and fodder supply chain to ensure sustainable livestock-based food systems.
Their efforts are closely aligned with the "Resilient African Feed and Fodder Systems Project" (RAFFS), a collaboration between AU-IBAR and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, aimed at addressing critical food shortages in the region.
Lovin Kobusinge, President of AWARFA-N, underscores the importance of empowering women in agriculture, noting that “Women are the backbone of our rural economy. When they are included, we build resilient communities that thrive.”
She emphasizes how access to affordable, subsidized capital is key in helping women expand their livestock businesses and contribute to regional food security.
A key component of the RAFFS project is expanding Uganda’s feed and fodder data ecosystem.
David Maina, a Feed and Fodder Business Development Expert, points out the importance of data systems for informed decision-making and sustainable growth in the sector.
This initiative will also streamline market access and address inefficiencies in the feed and fodder supply chain.
The RAFFS project facilitates contracting and investment opportunities for women-led enterprises, offering them long-term stability and financial backing in an unpredictable market.
This approach not only improves women’s livelihoods but also strengthens the resilience of Africa’s feed and fodder supply chains.
Training workshops held in Uganda have been instrumental in empowering women with the knowledge to utilize technology for better feed management, improving productivity and profitability.
As Maina notes, this knowledge exchange is crucial for enhancing sector efficiency, aligning with AU-IBAR’s goal to create a resilient livestock sector that supports local economies.
The efforts of AWARFA-N and its partners are making significant strides towards a resilient and inclusive agricultural sector, securing Africa’s food future and demonstrating the pivotal role of women in achieving food security across the continent.
