Two Indonesian farmers have received international recognition for work that connects sustainable food production with women’s economic opportunities. Istiqamah from Aceh and Rulyantina from Banten were selected for the Food and Agriculture Organization’s 100 Women Heroes in Agrifood Systems and Rural Development. FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu presented the awards at the World Food Forum in Rome on October 15, 2026.

Istiqamah serves as secretary of a coffee cooperative with 980 members managing more than 1,200 hectares. Her work promotes coffee production that combines farming with environmental conservation. She also supports women’s participation in decisions throughout the coffee supply chain.

Rulyantina was recognised for processing talas beneng, or giant taro, into higher-value products using a zero-waste approach. Her initiative creates opportunities for women and small businesses while supporting a wider range of local foods. She wants women to earn income close to home.

Both farmers called for better access to training, technology, finance and markets. FAO selected the honourees from 609 nominations submitted by 131 member states. Its 2023 data show women represent about 42 per cent of the global agrifood workforce, while the productivity gap between women and men remains 24 per cent. Closing these gaps remains part of FAO’s wider message.