Women and girls play a crucial role in global food systems but face significant barriers such as unequal access to land, finance, education, and leadership opportunities. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) emphasizes that addressing gender inequality is essential for achieving food security worldwide.

In Dar es Salaam, many women entrepreneurs face significant challenges in accessing capital, which is crucial for the survival and growth of their small businesses. This issue affects various individuals, including those looking to expand their operations, such as a Mama Ntilie needing a larger cooking stove or a market vendor wanting to increase her stock, according to Daily News.

Women in North West (NW) and Gauteng Province (GP) are expressing concerns over shortages of birth control methods, particularly injectables and implants, which has led to fears of unplanned pregnancies. Reports indicate that these shortages are affecting access to essential reproductive health services in these regions, according to Health-e News.

In Tanzania, climate change significantly impacts the daily lives of millions of women and girls, affecting their access to water, food, and income. This reality highlights the need for empowerment and community strengthening to better cope with climate shocks, moving beyond statistical discussions to address the tangible effects on vulnerable populations, according to Daily News.

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has faced criticism for her Akara and Kulikuli Women Empowerment Programme, which is part of the Renewed Hope Initiative. The program aims to empower women at the grassroots level, but it has sparked debate regarding its effectiveness and impact on economic policy, according to ThisDay Live.

In Nigeria, a growing number of young women, particularly students, are opting to sell their eggs for financial gain, often to cover tuition fees and other expenses. Fertility clinics have become popular venues for this practice, as reported by Weekend Trust. The trend raises concerns about the long-term implications for the women involved and their futures.