A group of 20 rural women leaders from 13 African countries and Germany gathered in Kigali for the second session of the “Women Lead: Leadership for Rural Women” program. PAFO organized the initiative in partnership with the Andreas Hermes Akademie (AHA) and the German Rural Women’s Association (dlv) to strengthen women’s leadership in agriculture and equip them with the skills needed to drive positive change in their communities.
Building Leadership Skills
The program provided a dynamic space for participants to develop active listening, time management, and advocacy techniques. Through interactive workshops, they learned how to assess community needs, manage their time efficiently, and advocate for policies that support rural women farmers.
Discussions also covered negotiation strategies and conflict resolution, equipping women with tools to engage effectively with institutions, access resources, and turn challenges into opportunities. By sharing experiences and best practices, they built confidence in their leadership roles and strengthened their ability to drive collective action.
Field Visit to INGABO Syndicate
One of the most impactful experiences was a field visit to the INGABO Syndicate, a farmer-led organization supporting rural agricultural development. Participants had the opportunity to explore:
- Technical training programs that improve agricultural productivity.
- Sustainable, community-driven solutions addressing climate and social challenges.
- Innovative approaches to accessing agricultural resources to overcome barriers faced by rural women.
The visit underscored the importance of local initiatives in fostering resilience and empowering women farmers with practical knowledge and support systems.
Certification and Next Steps
The program culminated in a certification ceremony, celebrating the dedication and perseverance of these rural women leaders. The certificates symbolized more than just participation—they represented a commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture and advocating for gender equity in rural development.
As they returned to their respective countries, participants carried with them newfound skills, valuable networks, and a collective vision for stronger, more inclusive agricultural communities. Their engagement in this initiative highlights the power of women-led innovation in shaping the future of rural Africa.
For the full story, visit PAFO’s website: A Week in Kigali: Empowering African Rural Women Leaders