With CIFOR-ICRAF and the CGIAR GENDER Impact Platform, we were delighted to convene leading global experts in agricultural research for development to mark the 2024 International Women’s Day as we illuminated some impactful investments in women.

The event featured interactive conversations and storytelling fireside chats as we discussed “Investing in women to accelerate progress toward equitable agrifood systems.”

This year’s IWD theme sought to spotlight actions toward closing the equality gender gap by 2030 to secure prosperous and just economies and a healthy planet for future generations.

With global trends indicating gender equality having only advanced by 4.1 percent and the gap is substantially widening, it is imperative to pay attention to gender-responsive approaches driving positive change across the agrifood systems.

This forum ignited conversations on investments in women, shifting the needle toward equitable agrifood systems while calling for better targeting of such investments for accelerated progress. Discussions spotlighted how to invest in agricultural solutions that work for women and the role of institutions in improving the numbers and experiences of women in agrifood systems leadership.

The panel conversations featured a host of thought leaders and scientists working in gender-responsive agricultural research and development.

Headlining the conversations was a panel discussion with Dr. Éliane Ubalijoro, CEO of CIFOR-ICRAF, and Professor Appolinaire Djikeng, Director General, ILRI, moderated by Dr. Susan Kaaria, Director AWARD, that explored the role of institutions in improving the experiences and numbers of women in science.

We invite you to watch the video below to relive the event and the ensuing conversations. We also encourage you to learn from our guests’ experiences and how they contribute to investing in women to accelerate progress toward equitable agrifood systems.