Apec told to give women a hand

PAPUA New Guinea has urged Apec countries to support more participation of women in agriculture and fisheries.
This was revealed during the policy partnership on food security forum on Saturday in Port Moresby.
Agriculture and Livestock Department adviser Regina Nukundj spoke on the subject and appealed for cooperation and support from delegates.
Nukundj said women in agriculture and fisheries played an important role in supporting their families and communities to achieve food and nutrition security.
She said they contributed to agriculture and small enterprises fuelling local, regional and global economies.
“Yet, they continue to face challenges limiting their progressive advancement and preventing them from freely accessing resources that can enable their full participation in economic development.”
Nukundj said Apec leaders had already made supporting statements on the crucial role of women in the development and prosperity of Asia-Pacific.
“Leaders have made declarations to increase women’s participation and empowerment in the economy. Other international organisations have made similar commitment,” Nukundj said.
“PNG proposes to bring to the attention of the member economies the need for a sector/work stream specific policy to address the needs of emerging women in agriculture and fisheries, farmers, entrepreneurs and managers in the Asia-Pacific region.
“The policy will give rise to the formulation of collaborative partnerships between advanced economies and emerging economies through technical cooperation to address the policy gaps that exists with women in agriculture and fisheries within Apec.”