By Dorcas Kabuya
The Ministry of Agriculture working with the Gender Division supported by CAB International, is validating the Gender Audit Report that is aimed at informing policy, improve how the Ministry plans and enhancing institutional performance, while promoting gender equality and social inclusion.
CAB International Regional Director, Dr. Natasha Mwila, said the Audit has generated provided clear, evidence-based findings that will guide on how the Ministry can be better supported to mainstream gender across its work, strengthening inclusive service delivery and development outcomes.
“The Ministry is expected to use the recommendations to strengthen planning and budgeting processes, ensuring that programmes respond more effectively to the needs of both women and men farmers,” she said.
Dr. Mwila reiterated also CABI’s commitment to supporting food security, resilient livelihoods and sustainable agricultural systems, stressing that gender equality and social inclusion are not add-ons but essential drivers of agricultural productivity, effective service delivery and long-term development outcomes.
“By addressing structural gaps identified in the Audit, the Ministry expects to enhance its contribution to food security, resilient livelihoods and sustainable agricultural development,” he noted.
And Ministry of Agriculture Assistant Director, Innocent Mulauzi, highlighted that the Audit, provides a detailed assessment of gaps within the Ministry, its Centers, and Agricultural Colleges to guide interventions aimed at improving staff retention, training, and institutional equity.
Mr. Mulauzi emphasised that addressing these gaps is critical to achieving national agricultural directives, including the 10-1-1 Presidential Initiative.
“The problem of gender, if not addressed, is a silent killer. It affects the total human being, and when staff are not fully engaged or motivated, we cannot realise our full potential,” he noted.