A recent workshop in Tra Vinh, Vietnam, brought together various stakeholders to address gender and climate change adaptation in the Mekong Delta’s agricultural sector. Organized under an initiative focused on Asian mega-deltas, the event highlighted the critical role of women in agriculture and explored strategies to promote gender equality and empowerment.
Participants included representatives from government agencies, local authorities, academic institutions, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations. The gathering served as a platform to share research, strategies, and initiatives aimed at fostering women’s participation in climate change adaptation and sustainable agricultural practices in the region.
In the opening presentation, the importance of gender mainstreaming in agriculture was emphasized. Women, often underrepresented in agricultural value chains, face unique challenges that require targeted interventions. Recognizing their contributions and addressing these challenges through a gender lens is essential for creating a more inclusive and equitable agricultural sector.
One of the critical points raised was the invisibility of women in agricultural decision-making and value chains, which are traditionally dominated by men. To counter this, strategies such as leadership training, skill recognition, and the formation of women’s groups were proposed. These approaches aim to empower women, enabling them to play a more prominent role in agriculture and climate change adaptation.
A panel discussion shed light on the opportunities and challenges faced by rural women in agriculture. Panelists, including representatives from national agencies, academia, and farmer cooperatives, highlighted the significant contributions women make at various stages of the agricultural value chain, from production to marketing. The discussion underscored the need for collaborative efforts among government agencies, NGOs, and local organizations to promote gender equality. Capacity building, policy reforms, and supportive environments for women farmers were identified as critical areas of focus.
The workshop also showcased two women-founded agricultural business models in the Mekong region. These enterprises have successfully integrated climate-smart practices and social inclusivity into their operations. Their experiences served as inspiring examples of how women can lead sustainable and inclusive agricultural initiatives.
Participants were divided into groups to design agricultural development projects with a focus on women’s empowerment. The proposed projects included initiatives to improve the quality of agricultural machinery services, promote a rice straw-based circular economy, enhance mushroom production and market linkage, and build women-led communication and event organization capacities under the 1 Million Hectare Program. The project design process incorporated the Theory of Change framework, ensuring that the proposed initiatives were grounded in clear goals and measurable outcomes.
As a highlight of the workshop, an awarding ceremony recognized individuals who have made significant contributions to empowering women in agriculture. These individuals were honored for their efforts in advancing gender equality and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the Mekong Delta and beyond.
On the second day, participants visited a local enterprise specializing in organic coconut nectar production. This enterprise exemplifies sustainability, local economic development, and social inclusion. With a workforce comprising 95% Khmer ethnic minority members and 70% women, the company demonstrates how socially inclusive business models can thrive while contributing to the empowerment of marginalized groups.
The workshop underscored the importance of integrating gender considerations into agricultural development and climate change adaptation strategies. By promoting women’s leadership, building their capacities, and creating supportive environments, stakeholders can unlock the full potential of women in agriculture, driving progress toward a more sustainable and equitable future for the Mekong Delta.
