The Gender Affairs Unit, Ministry of Sustainability and Climate Resiliency, Cayman Islands Government Wellness Committee, Ministry of Agriculture, Department of Agriculture and the Family Resource Centre are pleased to announce two upcoming Honouring Women Month events dedicated to honouring and empowering women in agriculture.

On Friday, 22nd March, from 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM, the Women in Agriculture Farmers Market will take place at the Glass House Lawn on Elgin Avenue. This event will feature women-owned or operated farms and related businesses, offering a diverse array of agricultural-based products. Attendees are encouraged to support these businesses and contribute to the economic empowerment of women in the community. Vendors are invited to register on https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/5Z3Q7YP by Monday, 18th March at noon. 

Following this, on Tuesday, 26^th March, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, the Women, Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture Workshop will be held at the Intergenerational Hub located at 131 MacLendon Drive, George Town. This educational workshop will cover pertinent topics essential for success in the agricultural sector, including environmental and agricultural policies, practices, and programs implemented by the Cayman Islands Government. Furthermore, strategies for navigating Agriculture in the Age of Climate Change and insights on how to initiate and manage a successful farm will be provided. Attendees may register for the workshop at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Y6XC5LR.

When asked about the upcoming events, Minister for Sustainability and Climate Resiliency, Hon. Katherine Ebanks-Wilks said, “Through these events, we aspire to illuminate a path for women in agriculture, fostering a sense of optimism and possibility. Women continue to be the primary caregivers and have a major influence on their families’ food security. As we navigate the challenges posed by climate change, we must recognize the unique impact it has on women in the agricultural sector globally and locally. Disrupted growing seasons and soil degradation impact everyone in agriculture, but the consequences for women are often more severe due to their limited access to resources when compared to men in the industry. Thankfully our Government is addressing this through various programmes that attendees can learn about at our Women in Agriculture workshop.” The Minister added, “By coming together, we can sow the seeds of change and cultivate a more inclusive and thriving agricultural community where women play a vital role in adapting to and mitigating the effects of climate change. Together, we can empower women to lead the charge towards a more resilient and sustainable future for agriculture.”

“We are delighted to collaborate with the various Government ministries and agencies on these events during Honouring Women Month,” stated Gender Affairs Unit Senior Policy Analyst Karlene Bramwell. “These events provide a platform to acknowledge and celebrate the invaluable role of women in agriculture, while also advancing gender equality by providing avenues for enhanced growth, education, and economic empowerment for women in the Cayman Islands.”

The Cayman Islands’ 2021 Census revealed that skilled agricultural, forestry, and fishery workers account for only 1.2% of total employment, with a mere 0.2% being female (518 persons and 40 persons, respectively). The Women in Agriculture events aim to inspire and encourage women to participate in this sector, igniting a spark of possibility. The farmers’ market and the workshop offer valuable opportunities for networking, learning, and celebrating the significant contributions of women in shaping the agricultural landscape, whether as small backyard farmers, larger commercial farmers, or agri-processors in cottage industries. All individuals who are interested in entering, supporting, and empowering women in the agricultural sector are welcome to attend, regardless of their level of experience.

For further details about the Honouring Women Month events please visit https://www.dcs.gov.ky/frc/family-resource-centre-events.