Key Findings
- 1How women leaders are reshaping agricultural value chains and what organisations can learn from their approach.
Overview
Women produce approximately 80% of food in Sub-Saharan Africa, yet own less than 15% of agricultural land and receive less than 10% of agricultural credit. This disparity is not just an equity issue — it is a massive economic inefficiency.
"The Leadership Gap Despite their central role in food production, women are dramatically underrepresented in agricultural leadership."
South Africa loses 30% of fresh produce between farm gate and retail shelf — a R36 billion annual waste problem.
Solving post-harvest loss represents the single largest value creation opportunity in SA agriculture.
The Leadership Gap
Despite their central role in food production, women are dramatically underrepresented in agricultural leadership. In South Africa, women hold fewer than 20% of senior positions in agricultural companies, cooperatives, and research institutions.
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