From Sennar to Rome: Sudanese Farmer Named to FAO’s Global List| Sudanow Magazine

Khartoum (Sudanow) — From the heart of Sudan to the world, a new Sudanese name has joined the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) list of more than 100 influential women. This recognition did not come by chance, but as a result of dedicated work and determination to turn challenges into opportunities. Through her agricultural initiatives, Basma has helped transform the lives of hundreds of people and raise Sudan’s profile internationally. Her story is not merely one of individual success, but a story of hope for every Sudanese woman who believes that change begins with a single step.

According to the website of the General Administration for Agricultural Extension and Technology Transfer, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has selected Ms. Basma Suleiman Mersal Khalil, from Sennar State, among its First 100 Women Champions in Agrifood Systems and Rural Development, in recognition of her contributions to rural communities and agricultural development.

Ms. Basma’s selection followed a competitive global nomination process that received more than 600 nominations from over 131 countries, highlighting the scale of the international competition and the significance of the achievement made by a Sudanese woman in this field.

In its announcement of the recognition, FAO praised Ms. Basma’s role in supporting the transformation of agrifood systems, improving livelihoods in rural areas, empowering communities, protecting natural resources, and creating opportunities for future generations. It also described her experience as an inspiring example of how agriculture, entrepreneurship, and community service can contribute to rural development.

A Sudanese Nomination Led by the General Administration for Agricultural Extension and Technology Transfer

The General Administration for Agricultural Extension and Technology Transfer at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation had nominated a number of Sudanese women farmers for the international initiative. Among them was Ms. Basma Suleiman Mersal Khalil, who successfully reached the global list of 100 honourees.

Ms. Basma holds several positions within agricultural producers’ organizations in Sennar State, including Chairperson of the Aden Base Association, Treasurer of the Kessab Specialized Extension, and Treasurer of the Kessab Specialized Association. These roles reflect women’s growing presence in producers’ organizations and their participation in agricultural and community work at the local level.

FAO is scheduled to honour Ms. Basma during a special awards ceremony as part of the World Food Forum, which the organization will host at its headquarters in Rome, Italy, from 12 to 16 October 2026, in connection with the International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026.

General Administration Congratulates Sudanese Farmer

On this occasion, the General Administration for Agricultural Extension and Technology Transfer at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation extended its sincere congratulations to Ms. Basma Suleiman Mersal Khalil on this international recognition. It also congratulated agricultural and livestock professional organizations in Sennar State, describing the achievement as a tribute to the role of Sudanese women and their contributions to agriculture and rural development.

The administration affirmed that the recognition represents a distinguished addition to Sudan’s presence in international forums and highlights the importance of supporting and empowering farmers, both women and men, while strengthening their participation in agricultural and rural development.

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