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Focus on Women
"People often ask: What can be done to defeat hunger? My answer is simple: empower women, because women are the secret weapon to fight hunger." -- WFP Executive Director Josette Sheeran
Women make up a little over half of the world's population but in many parts of the world, especially in Asia and South America, they are more likely to go hungry than men. This is because women often have unequal access to resources, education and income, and because they participate less in decision-making.
But women are not merely victims of hunger. They are also the most effective solution to combating and preventing hunger. In many countries, women make up the bulk of agricultural labourers and are the backbone of food production systems.
Women also play a key role in guaranteeing food security for the household. Experience shows that in the hands of women, food is far more likely to reach the mouths of needy children. Learn more
Focus on Women - Stories
Footballs and Literacy Change Lives for Afghan Women
WFP food rations can be an incentive for families to send women on training courses, where they learn how to read and write as well as basic marketable crafts. Enjila Hashimi spoke to women on a course in Kabul to find out what difference such a food-for-training activity had made in their lives.
The Strength of Afghan Mothers
As many countries around the world prepare to celebrate Mother's Day, Public Information Officer Silke Buhr reflects on some of the challenges faced by women in Afghanistan.
Philippines: Women Planting For Their Community
After being displaced by conflict, the women of Manga have finally found a way to support their families. Together with other women from their community, they are helping rebuild their families' lives and re-establishing their own livelihoods.
Djibouti: For Displaced Women, Food Aid Shows They're “Not Forgotten”
During times of drought and civil conflict, women are usually on the frontlines, fighting to keep their families afloat. Helaffi and Bidari, two women now in a nomadic encampment in northern Djibouti, are typical. Thanks to support from WFP and the EU, they're managing - and the food is keeping their spirits up.
