International Day of Rural women is being observed today to recognize “the critical role and contribution of rural women, including indigenous women, in enhancing agricultural and rural development, improving food security and eradicating rural poverty.”

The first International Day of Rural Women was observed on 15 October 2008 by the United Nations.

Rural women play a critical role in the rural economies of developed and developing countries.

In most parts of the developing world they participate in crop production and livestock care, provide food, water and fuel for their families, and engage in off-farm activities to diversify their families’ livelihoods.

Additionally, they carry out vital functions in caring for children, older persons and the sick.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s message for this day is: “Empowering rural women is crucial for ending hunger and poverty. By denying women rights and opportunities, we deny their children and societies a better future. This is why the United Nations recently launched a programme to empower rural women and enhance food security.”