By Ruth O. Umoru
Introduction
Food security remains a critical issue in Nigeria, with challenges such as climate change, post-harvest losses, and inefficient farming methods affecting agricultural productivity. However, women in Agricultural and Bioresource Engineering (ABE) are making significant contributions toward solving these challenges. The Women in Agricultural and Bioresource Engineering Network (WABEN) is playing a crucial role in supporting and empowering female engineers to improve food security through mentorship, innovation, technology, and sustainable practices.
The Role of Women in Agricultural and Bioresource Engineering
Women in Agricultural and Bioresource Engineering are involved in various aspects of the agricultural value chain, from food production to processing, storage, and distribution. Their expertise in engineering solutions helps to optimize agricultural operations, improve efficiency, and reduce food wastage. Some key areas where these women are making a difference include:
1. Mechanization and Automation in Agriculture
Women in ABE are contributing to the development and adoption of modern farming techniques by designing and implementing agricultural machinery suited for Nigeria’s diverse agro-ecological zones. By promoting mechanized farming, they help reduce labor-intensive practices and enhance productivity.
2. Irrigation and Water Resource Management
Access to water is essential for agricultural sustainability. Female engineers are involved in designing and implementing irrigation systems that maximize water use efficiency. Drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and smart irrigation technologies are among the solutions they advocate to improve food production.
3. Post-Harvest Technology and Food Preservation
A major challenge in Nigeria’s agricultural sector is post-harvest losses, which significantly impact food security. Women engineers are developing storage facilities, drying technologies, and food processing techniques that extend the shelf life of perishable crops. Innovations such as solar-powered dryers and improved silos are helping to minimize post-harvest losses.
4. Sustainable and Climate-Resilient Agriculture
With climate change posing a threat to food security, women in ABE are championing climate-smart agricultural practices. They design and promote technologies that reduce carbon footprints, such as bio-digesters for renewable energy, composting techniques, and soil conservation methods.
5. Renewable Energy in Agriculture
Energy is a crucial component of agricultural processing and preservation. Women engineers in WABEN are developing and implementing renewable energy solutions such as solar-powered irrigation pumps and biomass energy systems to support smallholder farmers and agro-processors.
6. Capacity Building and Advocacy
Through WABEN, women are engaging in training programs, workshops, and community outreach to educate farmers, students, and policymakers on the importance of agricultural engineering innovations. They mentor young women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), encouraging them to pursue careers in agricultural and bioresource engineering.
Challenges and the Way Forward
Despite their contributions, women in agricultural engineering face challenges such as limited funding, gender bias, and inadequate access to research facilities. To enhance their impact on food security, there is a need for:
- Increased government and private sector support for funding and research grants.
- More inclusion of women in policy-making to shape agricultural engineering strategies.
- Strengthening networks like WABEN to provide mentorship and collaborative opportunities.
- Improved access to technology and resources for women-led agricultural enterprises.
Conclusion
Women in Agricultural and Bioresource Engineering are making remarkable strides in improving food security in Nigeria. Through WABEN, they are breaking barriers, innovating solutions, and driving sustainable agricultural practices. With the right support and recognition, their contributions can further transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector, ensuring a food-secure future for the nation.
