Strengthening Women-Led Cooperatives Through Agri-Advocacy and Policy Dialogue

On May 5 and 6, Engineers Without Borders Nepal (EWBN) had the opportunity to facilitate the Agri-Advocacy & Policy Negotiation Workshop, organized by Heifer International Nepal

The two-day workshop brought together members of Social Entrepreneur Women’s Cooperatives (SEWCs), smallholder farmers, and agricultural cooperatives for an engaging and practical learning experience. The sessions focused on strengthening participants’ skills in policy advocacy, stakeholder engagement, negotiation, and collective agenda-setting, with the broader goal of supporting a more enabling environment for women-led cooperatives and rural enterprises.

Led by Mr. Bhojraj Poudel, the workshop created a space for open discussion, shared learning, and honest reflection. Participants actively raised questions, shared field-level experiences, and discussed the challenges they face in accessing markets, engaging with institutions, and ensuring their voices are heard in policy and decision-making processes.

One of the key messages from the workshop was that effective advocacy is not only about raising concerns, but also about building a common voice, using evidence, and working together with relevant stakeholders. Participants reflected on the importance of inclusive and participatory advocacy that connects cooperatives, government bodies, private sector actors, civil society organizations, and local communities.

The workshop also encouraged participants to think practically about how women-led cooperatives can identify common priorities, communicate their needs more clearly, and engage more confidently with decision-makers. Through group discussions and interactive sessions, the participants worked toward building shared agendas that reflect the realities and aspirations of smallholders and cooperative members.

For EWBN, it was meaningful to contribute to an initiative that places women-led enterprises and rural communities at the center of policy dialogue. We are grateful to Heifer International Nepal for organizing this important workshop and for creating a platform where cooperative members could learn, reflect, and strengthen their collective voice.

EWBN remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote inclusive development, women-led enterprises, cooperative strengthening, and rural economic growth.