Women account for about 70% of Africa's food production and manage a large proportion of small enterprises. They are also increasingly represented in legislative and executive leadership positions.

The quote by Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala highlights the critical role of women in Africa’s economy and society. She emphasizes that women are responsible for approximately 70% of the continent’s food production, underscoring their essential contribution to agriculture and food security. This statistic reflects the significant labor, expertise, and resilience women bring to sustaining communities and economies across Africa.

Okonjo-Iweala also points out that women manage a large proportion of small enterprises, highlighting their role in entrepreneurship and economic development. By running businesses and contributing to local and regional markets, women drive innovation, create employment opportunities, and foster economic growth. Their involvement in business demonstrates both economic agency and leadership at the grassroots level.

The quote further underscores the increasing representation of women in legislative and executive leadership positions. This trend signals progress toward gender equality in political leadership, enabling women to influence policies, advocate for inclusive development, and address social and economic challenges from positions of power. Okonjo-Iweala’s observation connects women’s contributions in agriculture and business with their growing impact on governance and decision-making.

Originating from Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, a Nigerian economist and Director-General of the World Trade Organization, the quote reflects her expertise in economic development, gender equity, and global leadership. Okonjo-Iweala’s perspective highlights that women’s multifaceted roles—from food production and entrepreneurship to political leadership—are central to Africa’s sustainable growth and social progress.