I thank the International Federation of Agricultural Producers for being among the NGOs that lobbied for the World Rural Women's Day to be recognised and the Governments that observe this important event.

Rural women hold the key to agricultural production and food security, particularly in the developing world. They produce up to 80% of basic foodstuffs, contribute up to 80% of farm labour for household food crops and over 50% of the labour for cash crops as well as generating income through non-agricultural activities.

Therefore, the entire world should acknowledge the fundamental contribution of women to household and national food security and the multiple roles rural women play throughout the entire food chain. Starting from agricultural production to post harvest processing and marketing as well as in nutrition and food safety, rural women around the world play a crucial role in fighting hunger and feeding the world.

We believe that the battle for food security can be won only if the invaluable contribution made by women is recognised and if the social, political and economic context empowers them to develop their potential, as farmers, actors of development and human being.

WE ARE AT THE FOREFRONT OF PROMOTING HUMAN RIGHTS.

Human Rights and Human development begin with a basic meal, which is everybody's right.

I therefore call upon all governments in the world, international communities and the public sector to invest in women and empower them through education, training to equip them with production skills, provision of credit, access to extension services, information and more efficient technology.

Let me take this opportunity to invite all Rural Women Farmers all over the world to join us to celebrate this important day together for our voices to be heard.

Let me wish you the best and urge you always to work hard and support each other for solidarity.