Karachi: Formation of platform of Provincial Stakeholders Alliance (PSA) was momentous milestone for rights and empowerment of women agricultural workers in Sindh. An event in this regard was held here which proved to be significant step in addressing issues raised in research report ‘Hands that Feed Us: Struggles of Women Agricultural Workers in Pakistan’ produced by Awaz Foundation Pakistan, Centre for Development Services, NARI Foundation and Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA).

Rural women in Pakistan’s agriculture sector, often overlooked, confront significant challenges such as lower wages, malnutrition, discrimination and exploitation due to patriarchal norms. It was already highlighted by Awaz Foundation Pakistan’s study that underscored issues like limited legal awareness and urged action from district departments and ministries.

Iqbal Ahmed Detho Chairperson of Sindh Human Rights Commission said, “This meeting aims to conduct gap analysis, addressing challenges hindering implementation of Sindh Women Agricultural Workers Act, 2019 and to provide actionable recommendations to governmental bodies and civil society.”

Ziaur Rehman Chief Executive of AwazCDS-Pakistan introduced project and purpose of PSA, emphasising, “This platform aims to be catalyst for positive change, ensuring rights and empowerment of women agricultural workers are prioritised and protected by ensuring passage of rules of business and implementation of Sindh Women Agricultural Workers Act 2019.”

Omar Dawoodjee Director (Operations and Resource Mobilisation FORUM-ASIA) shared that with help of their partners, they are working on capacity building of government officials, marginalised communities and civil society.”

Published in The Daily National Courier, February, 24 2024

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