In a world where women farmers are often overlooked, Sudanese women are reshaping the future of farming—and Muna Eltahir, our Sudan Country Director, is working tirelessly to amplify their voices. From battling climate change to breaking systemic barriers, these women are demonstrating their transformative power. This is their story of resilience, innovation, and the fight for a more equitable future.
A Legacy of Strength and Innovation
Across Sudan, women farmers are the backbone of agriculture, nurturing the land and sustaining their communities. Their role extends far beyond the fields, they are business leaders, knowledge keepers, and agents of change. For Muna Eltahir, the impact of these women is undeniable. Having worked closely with them, she has witnessed not just their struggles, but their incredible ability to rise above challenges with ingenuity and resilience.
Despite facing climate uncertainty, restrictive land laws, and market barriers, Sudanese women farmers continue to thrive. They cultivate staple crops such as peanuts, sesame, and sorghum, applying traditional knowledge and cooperative practices to feed their families and drive local economies. Their perseverance is a testament to the power of women-led agricultural transformation.
“Women farmers are not waiting for change to happen. They are driving it,” Muna explains. “They are organising, innovating, and proving that sustainable agriculture starts with them.”
Accelerating Action for Lasting Change
As Muna prepares to take the stage at the London School of Economics (LSE) panel on International Women’s Day, she carries with her the stories of women who, despite everything, continue to push forward. Women in agriculture are not just contributors; they are leaders shaping the future of Sudan’s food systems. Their resilience proves that investing in women farmers means investing in stronger, more food-secure communities.
Her message is one of both urgency and optimism. “This is a moment for action,” she says. “Women farmers are already doing the work. What they need now is for policymakers, donors, and communities to stand with them, to create policies that protect their rights, open markets, and ensure they have the tools to thrive.”
On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate women who are transforming agricultural livelihoods through strength and determination. Their leadership is paving the way for a future where women farmers are not just seen but heard, supported, and celebrated. The time for incremental progress is over. Now is the time to accelerate action and ensure that women in agriculture have the rights, resources, and recognition they deserve.
Muna Eltahir, Sudan Director
Muna Eltahir joined Practical Action in 2015 as Sudan’s Country Director, bringing with her a wealth of experience in humanitarian and development work. A dedicated women’s rights activist and gender expert, Muna has worked with prominent organisations such as DFID, the Netherlands Embassy, UNOCHA, ADRA, and Windle Trust.
She holds two master’s degrees—one in Economics of Human Resource Development from India, and another in International Community Development from Andrews University in Michigan, USA.