Emerging market opportunities for gender-inclusive agritech FIGURE 4 LowSepecialized Labour intensiveWomen’ s role in farming Low priority market – No immediate attentionLimited market – Limited scope to diversify or expandGrowing market – – High potential of digital tech adoption Innovate on pr oducts, channel and communicationPotential market – Develop digital tech capacity or cr eate physical channels – No new pr oduct development Increasing Access to smartphone and use of communication/content apps Source: World Economic Forum Feminization of agriculture unlocking a new customer segment Today, evidence shows that in several developing countries, the number of women participating in agriculture has grown compared to men. This trend, where women are likely to become the primary workforce of the agriculture sector, is known as “the feminization of agriculture”24 and is being driven by the increasing rural-to-urban migration of men. As more women take on roles as cultivators, entrepreneurs and labourers, the need to tailor agritech solutions to meet their specific needs is becoming critical. Doing so not only has social implications but also unlocks a previously underserved customer segment, creating significant business opportunities for agritech companies.1 Gender-inclusive agritech can unlock untapped potential for sustainable growth and development. Collaborative efforts of government, private sectors, startups, academia, investors and civil society are essential to leverage agritech solutions that address the unique challenges faced by women farmers and empower them with access to technology and agricultural resources. Empowering women in Saudi Arabia’s agriculture sector is key to realizing Vision 2030, as their contributions are vital to food security and sustainable rural development. Basma AlBuhairan, Managing Director, Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Saudi Arabia Agritech for Women Farmers: A Business Case for Inclusive Growth 14

Agritech for Women Farmers 2024