If women farmer groups grow local-traditional vegetables and crops using agroecological practices, along with their efforts to add value through processing, marketing, and leveraging Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLA), then agroecology not only enhances agricultural productivity but also promotes gender equity and economic empowerment. This approach demonstrates how agroecology can be a powerful tool for empowering women and fostering sustainable development in rural communities.

• Policymakers and governments.
• Consumers, and food systems stakeholders.
• NGOs and development agencies.

Policymakers and Governments

• Priorities: Economic growth, food security, sustainable development, social equity.

Consumers and Food Systems Stakeholders

• Priorities: Health, environmental sustainability, ethical consumption, food quality.

NGOs and Development Agencies

• Priorities: Sustainable development, poverty alleviation, empowerment, environmental protection.

Highlighting women farmers practicing agroecology and adding value to agroecological products:

We showcase the significance of gender-inclusive approaches in sustainable agriculture and cultural preservation. This provides evidence of first-hand testimonials, interviews of traditional knowledge and cultural significance associated with women farmers' cultivation of traditional vegetables and their participation in value addition activities (processing of agroecological produce) and empowering them economically.

The strategy we used to argue our case varies depending on our goals, audience, and the specific context of our advocacy.

  1. Comparison-Based Argument 

Strategy: 
We compare agroecological practices with conventional agricultural methods to highlight the benefits and advantages of agroecology.

Approach:

• Gender equity: We highlight the inclusiveness and empowerment provided by agroecological approaches to the often-unequal gender dynamics in conventional agriculture.

 2. Value and Rights-Based Argument 

Strategy:
We base our argument on fundamental values and rights, such as the right to food, gender equality, environmental stewardship, and cultural preservation. 

Approach:

• Gender justice: We frame agroecology as a pathway to gender equity, supporting the rights and roles of women in agriculture and ensuring their access to resources. 

3. Evidence-Based Argument

Strategy: 
We use data and case studies to build a strong evidence-based case for agroecology.

Approach:

• Case studies: We use real-world examples and success stories from female farmers who have successfully implemented agroecological practices to illustrate the tangible benefits and empowerment.

4. Narrative and Storytelling-Based Argument

Strategy:
We use storytelling to connect with our audience emotionally and make the case for agroecology more relatable and compelling.

Approach:

• Personal stories:  We share the experiences of individual women farmers, who have benefitted from agroecology, focusing on their journey, challenges, and successes.