AGRA

At 56 years old, Asabe David is more than a farmer and a mother of seven – she is a community builder and an advocate for change. A pillar of resilience in her community, Asabe has dedicated her life to nurturing her family and the land. Following the passing of her husband, David, she carries the mantle of providing for her children, cultivating maize as the primary crop. For years, like many smallholder farmers, her efforts were met with significant hurdles.

“Farming was our life,” Asabe recalls with a thoughtful expression. “But it was often a struggle, just enough to feed us, with little left over.”

That changed when a local partner, supported by AGRA’s Gender Consortium, extended its reach to Asabe’s cooperative. Through this collaboration, Asabe and her fellow women farmers gained access to vital training and resources designed to elevate their agricultural practices and amplify their collective voice.

“They taught us how to farm better, how to care for our tools, and most importantly, how to work together,” Asabe explains, emphasizing the power of unity. The training also equipped them with crucial advocacy skills, empowering them to engage with traditional leaders and local government to address their needs, particularly the pressing issue of land access.

A tangible turning point came when Asabe received improved maize seedlings through the AGRA-supported initiative. This access to higher-quality inputs, provided without the immediate pressure of repayment, offered a significant boost to her productivity and a glimmer of hope for a more secure harvest. While prioritizing food for her family, Asabe strategically plans to sell a portion later, demonstrating a growing understanding of market dynamics.

But the support extended beyond individual farming practices. The emphasis on cooperative strengthening and networking has fostered a powerful sense of solidarity among the women. Asabe has actively participated in building this network, recognizing that collective action is essential for driving meaningful change. Their unified voice amplifies their advocacy efforts, increasing their chances of securing the resources they need, including land and financial support.

Asabe’s vision for the future is deeply intertwined with the aspirations she holds for her children. While she herself has navigated the demanding realities of farming, her greatest hope is for her children to pursue education and opportunities beyond the farm. The potential for increased income through improved farming practices and collective bargaining, however, offers a pathway to ensuring her children have access to quality education and a brighter future.

Asabe’s journey, facilitated by AGRA’s Gender Consortium, reflects a crucial shift from individual struggle to collective empowerment. She embodies the potential of women farmers when provided with the right tools, knowledge, and a supportive network. Her story underscores the transformative impact of AGRA’s commitment to gender-inclusive agricultural development, demonstrating how empowering women not only strengthens their livelihoods but also cultivates hope and opportunity for generations to come. With continued support, Asabe and her fellow cooperative members are sowing the seeds for a more resilient and prosperous future for their community.