Rural Women Play Key Role in Nutrition and Economy: Farida

Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter today said that rural women are playing a vital role in strengthening Bangladesh’s nutrition base and rural economy through their relentless efforts.

“Rural women are becoming financially self-reliant by rearing ducks, poultry, livestock, and goats on one hand, while ensuring nutrition for their families and communities through the supply of eggs, milk, and meat on the other,” she said.

The adviser made the remarks while addressing a national seminar titled “Rural Women in Climate Adaptation” as the chief guest at the Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation auditorium in the capital.

The event, organized by the Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) to mark the International Day of Rural Women 2025, highlighted the contributions of rural women in building resilience and ensuring food security. MJF is a non-government and non-profit organization that works with grassroots partners to improve the lives of poor and marginalized communities.

Farida Akhter noted that a significant portion of the country’s nutrition at the micro level comes from the contributions of rural women.

“If rural women did not engage in animal rearing, Bangladesh could not have achieved self-sufficiency in food production,” she observed.

She stressed that the nation’s development is impossible without empowering rural women and recognizing their contributions. “Their role will become even more prominent if we continue to encourage and support them,” she added.

Referring to the hardships faced by fishermen, the adviser said many still struggle with low incomes due to the exploitative ‘Dadan’ system.

“The Dadan system is a major problem and must be eliminated,” she said, adding that a proposal has already been placed to establish a Fisheries and Livestock Bank to address the issue.

On the issue of child marriage, Farida Akhter emphasized, “Rural women cannot become strong if child marriage continues.”

Director of the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) Dr. M. Hazrat Ali and Programme Manager of the Resilient Livelihood Programme of the European Union’s Bangladesh office Meher Nigar Bhuiyan attended the event as special guests.

MJF Executive Director Shahin Anam delivered the welcome address, while Project Officer Tajwar Mahmid presented the keynote paper.