The Ministry of Agriculture, through its Division of Gender and Social Inclusion Unit (GSIU), has concluded a three-day Leadership Training for Farmer-Based Organizations (FBOs), Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), and Agricultural Cooperatives in Grand Cape Mount and Bomi Counties. The training aimed to strengthen leadership capacity while systematically determining and documenting women’s membership and leadership positions within agricultural organizations.

The training from October 15 to 17, 2025, brought together 30 participants, 15 from each county, including females, men, and persons with disabilities. Participants included executive leaders, SME owners, and cooperative board members, all committed to advancing gender inclusion and leadership development in the agricultural sector.

Liberia’s agriculture sector remains the cornerstone of the national economy, with women accounting for nearly 65% of the agricultural labor force. Yet, despite their vital contributions, women continue to face barriers to leadership and decision-making roles in agricultural institutions. This training directly addresses that gap.

“This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to mainstream gender across all agricultural programs,” said Marcy Wilson, DIrector of Ministry’s Gender and Social Inclusion Unit. “By empowering both women and men with leadership skills and gender-sensitive tools, we are ensuring that agricultural organizations become more inclusive, effective, and sustainable.”

The training will cover gender dynamics in agricultural organizations, gender-inclusive leadership and management, strategic planning and organizational development and networking, mentorship, and sustainability

Through interactive and participatory methods such as presentations, case studies, peer learning, and group discussions—participants will gain practical skills for promoting gender equality and inclusive leadership.

Expected outcomes include: Strengthened leadership capacity among participants, Development of gender-sensitive assessment tools, Generation of baseline data on women’s membership and leadership positions and Creation of peer networks to promote women’s empowerment and continued learning

The initiative aligns with the Ministry of Agriculture’s Strategic Plan and contributes to national and global gender equality goals. It also supports the Ministry’s broader effort to ensure equitable participation and representation in agricultural value chains.

By investing in this capacity-building effort, the Ministry is laying the groundwork for more inclusive, data-driven agricultural development, where women’s voices and leadership are recognized as essential drivers of growth and resilience.