As the world celebrates the International Year of the Woman Farmer, this side event recognises Pacific women farmers as climate leaders whose knowledge, innovation and leadership are fundamental to resilient food systems, climate adaptation and sustainable development. Women farmers are the backbone of Pacific food systems. They are food producers, seed custodians, biodiversity champions, entrepreneurs and community leaders who play an indispensable role in strengthening household resilience and adapting to climate change. Yet despite their significant contributions, women continue to face systemic barriers in accessing land, finance, extension services, markets, technologies and decision-making processes. Celebrating the International Year of the Woman Farmer, this side event will showcase the leadership of Pacific women farmers in driving climate adaptation, safeguarding biodiversity and strengthening resilient food systems. Through stories from across the Pacific, the discussion will highlight how women are combining Indigenous knowledge, innovation and community leadership to respond to climate challenges while sustaining livelihoods and food security. The event will also explore the policies, investments and partnerships needed to create an enabling environment for women farmers to thrive. Discussions will emphasise that achieving climate-resilient agriculture requires moving beyond recognising women as beneficiaries towards supporting them as leaders, innovators and equal partners in climate action. Investing in women farmers is an investment in stronger families, resilient communities and sustainable Pacific food systems.

Venue

Moana Blue Pacific Pavilion

Speakers

Barbara Tomi (Papua New Guinea), Lyndellar Sanau (Solomon Islands), Taaloga Apa (Samoa)