IFOAM Training Module on Gender in Organic Agriculture

The concept and layout of this training module is in line with the IFOAM Training Manual Series. For the elaboration of the training module existing information was collected, screened and condensed into a comprehensive training module. Additionally, extension workers and consultants in organic agriculture were asked for their experience. A draft of the training module was tested in Uganda with a group of Field Officers who work with small-scale organic farmers. Their input was included in the final version of the training module. Gender experts from Latin America and Asia gave their feedback during the concept phase and on the last draft version of the training module.

The training module describes the main gender issues for small-scale farmers in organic agriculture in tropical regions. There are differences in relevant gender issues between Asia, Africa and Latin America, but also between different communities within the continents. Therefore, we chose for an open approach where all possible aspects are mentioned, in order to sensitise the trainer to be alert on these issues and to be able to adapt the training to each specific group of trainees. The introduction chapter contains advice to trainers on how to achieve high participation of women in the training course.