The 2023 Kabarak University School of Law Annual Conference has brought together scholars and experts in the agriculture sector to discuss the intersection between gender and agriculture. With the theme centered on women’s pivotal role in agriculture, this two-day conference will shed light on the opportunities and challenges in promoting gender equality in the agricultural sector.
In Professor J Osogo Ambani’s, Dean School of Law, thought-provoking opening remarks, he highlighted the significant burden shouldered by women in agriculture, particularly in small-scale farming. Professor Ambani emphasised that women play a crucial role in advancing agriculture, from the farm to the market. Their dedication and hard work are fundamental to the sustenance of rural communities and the global food supply.
Kennedy Mugochi, the Regional Director of Hivos East Africa, shared valuable insights into the power of women in promoting sustainability in agriculture. Acknowledging their remarkable contributions, he stressed that empowering women in agriculture is essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. However, he also brought attention to the financial constraints that hinder women’s progress and exacerbate the adverse effects of climate change on farming communities.
Kabarak University’s Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and Research), Professor John Ochola, conveyed the university’s unwavering commitment to research, innovation, and academics. He affirmed Professor Henry Kiplangat’s, the Vice-Chancellor, dedication to supporting initiatives that contribute to positive change and progress. The establishment of a culture of debates and discourse, along with commendable performance in moot courts, has positioned Kabarak University as an institution of academic excellence.
In Professor Henry Kiplangat’s speech, read out by Professor Ochola, it was announced that the Kabarak University Press would publish the research outputs from the Annual Conference in the form of an edited book. The book would be launched on International Women’s Day 2024, underscoring the university’s commitment to empowering gender equality through quality academic research.
The Chief Guest, Harriet Chiggai, President’s Women’s Rights Advisor, commended Kabarak University for creating an inclusive platform for intellectual discourse. Appreciating the collaboration between Kabarak University and Hivos, she acknowledged the significance of the theme of the Annual Conference in highlighting the challenges and opportunities for women in agriculture. Such initiatives, in her view, contribute to elevating the status of women in rural communities, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and ultimately fostering gender equality.
After the opening ceremony, the first day of the Annual Conference proceeded with three interactive panel discussions on conceptualising gender, agricultural governance and land rights. The second day of the conference will comprise panel discussions on environment, agricultural labour.
Bravo Kabarak Law School for amplifying the voices of women in agricultural governance!
