CELEBRATING RURAL WOMEN

International Day of Rural Women 2026: “Rural Women Cultivating Good Food for All”
As the world observes International Day of Rural Women on October 15, Antigua and Barbuda joins the global community in recognizing and celebrating the valuable contributions of women to agriculture, food production, rural development and food security. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007, this international observance highlights the dedication, knowledge, resilience and leadership of rural women who help nourish families, strengthen livelihoods and sustain the agricultural sector. The 2026 theme is “Rural Women Cultivating Good Food for All.”
In Antigua and Barbuda, women play an essential role in strengthening the nation’s food supply and advancing rural development. Agricultural professionals such as Dr. Diandra Payne, Dr. Chere Kellman and Dr. Nneka Hull-James, associated with veterinary services, alongside Dr. Janil Gore-Francis/Chief Plant Protection Officer, Nicolette Francis/Agricultural Science Education Officer, Mrs. Maudvere Bradford/Senior Research Officer, for the Ministry of Agriculture, contribute their knowledge and expertise to various aspects of the sector. Their work supports animal health, sustainable livestock and crop production, plant protection, seed production and assistance to local farmers. Through their dedication, these women help protect animal and public health, improve agricultural productivity and strengthen food security, benefiting communities throughout Antigua and Barbuda.
Additionally, female Agricultural officers such as Maudvere Bradford, Janil Gore-Francis, Laset Denis, Efuru Elihu, Anika Aska and Oneicia Anthony support producers like: Sherrie-Ann Brazier/Farmer and Agro-Processor, Monique Barrow/Banker and Farmer, Nicki Barnard/Farmer and Agro-Processor, and Miriam Samuel/Farmer and Agro-Processor, to name a few are stalwarts in the Agricultural Industry. These very hard-working women have been contributing to our food baskets for many many years and continue to do so. Kandia Lee-Williams, an Agricultural Science Teacher, also contributes to the sector by helping educate and inspire students about agriculture and its importance to national development. Interestingly, some of these ladies had or still have other professions but still find the time to demonstrate their commitment, never-ending love and passion for the sector, good nutrition and food security.
On this International Day of Rural Women, the Ministry of Agriculture celebrates these women for their contributions to agriculture, education and food security. Their work highlights the importance of supporting women in farming, agro-processing, agricultural education and other related fields. As Antigua and Barbuda continues to strengthen its food systems, the knowledge, commitment and efforts of women remain vital to cultivating good food for all.