The Women Agriculture and Seed Bank initiative of WESHDA focuses on empowering rural women in Khulna, Bangladesh, by enhancing their role in sustainable agriculture and biodiversity conservation. This thematic area recognizes women as key contributors to farming systems and aims to strengthen their knowledge, skills, and economic independence.
Through this program, WESHDA supports women farmers by providing training on climate-resilient agricultural practices, organic farming, and sustainable land use. The initiative also promotes the preservation and exchange of indigenous seeds by establishing community-based seed banks managed by women. These seed banks ensure access to quality seeds, protect local crop diversity, and reduce dependency on external seed sources.
Additionally, the program encourages collective action among women through farmer groups and cooperatives, enabling them to share knowledge, access markets, and improve their livelihoods. By integrating gender equality with agricultural development, WESHDA strives to build resilient communities, enhance food security, and create long-term socio-economic benefits for women and their families.