‘Bureau’ marks ‘International Day of Rural Women’ in October

The Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BGA) is spearheading an initiative in support of the International Day of Rural Women, highlighting the pivotal role of women in agriculture and rural communities.

This effort seeks to empower many women in the farming communities by promoting sustainable agricultural practices and ensuring that rural communities have access to the necessary tools for growth and development.

By setting standards that support innovation and produce quality, the BGA aims to enhance the economic and social well-being of rural women across Jamaica.

To this end, the Bureau of Gender Affairs observes the International Day of Rural Women (IDRW) with a series of activities spanning from October 5 to 25.

The events, which will be held under the local theme ‘Empowering Rural Women: Achieving a Sustainable Future’, include a partnership with the Jamaica Network of Rural Women Producers.

IDRW, which is observed annually on October 15, is a celebration of rural women and girls and their contribution to the enhancement of rural life and the role they play in the elimination of poverty and supporting their families and communities.

The BGA, in a statement, stated that the recognition will highlight the importance of providing rural women with opportunities for education, healthcare, economic independence and decision-making power within their communities.

‘By giving rural women the tools and resources they need, including access to land, capital and technology, they can play a crucial role in fostering sustainable practices, improving livelihoods and building resilient communities,’ the BGA said.

The day is also an opportunity to recognise the contribution that men make to families and communities as part of a global village.

‘It is also an occasion to highlight the challenges they face and find solutions to the same,’ the BGA stated.

The celebrations will begin with the IDRW sustainability hike at the Gourie Forest Management Area in Christiana, Manchester, on Saturday, October 5.

On Monday, October 7, national tree-planting day activities will take place at the Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation in Mandeville, Manchester, and at the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) in Spanish Town, St Catherine.

In addition, a health fair will be held at the Portland Cottage Primary School in Clarendon on Wednesday, October 9, and a commemorative church service will take place at the Yallahs Baptist Church in St Thomas on Sunday, October 13, beginning at 8:30 am.

Activities continue Wednesday, October 16 with a youth forum titled ‘Rural Girls Rock’ at the College of Agriculture, Science and Education, Passley Garden, Port Antonio, Portland, beginning at 10 am.

The IDRW celebrations culminate on Friday, October 25, with an Empowerment Forum Banner Event at Sean Lavery Faith Hall, Savana-la-Mar, Westmoreland, from 9 am to 4 pm.