Women farmers in Oaxaca, Guerrero report catastrophic drought

Drought has caused significant damage to corn crops in the southern states of Oaxaca and Guerrero, according to two associations of women farmers. These associations reported the loss of up to 100% of agricultural production, highlighting the devastating impact on their crops and economic well-being. The National Water Commission's latest drought monitor indicates that large parts of the states are experiencing drought conditions, described by the women farmers as severe.

The Red de Mujeres, Ejidatarias y Comuneras del Estado de Oaxaca and REMA stated that the drought is akin to a catastrophe, comparable to hurricanes but without wind or media attention. They emphasized that drought destroys the future and livelihoods of farming families, as it affects their ability to produce food, access water, and grow corn.

The farmers called for state and federal authorities to declare a climate emergency and implement programs to ensure food sovereignty and support female farmers, who primarily grow corn for their families and sell any surplus. They also requested direct financial assistance from authorities. Women farmers are experiencing despair, according to Nancy Solano, a farmer and spokesperson for her fellow campesinas in Oaxaca.

She noted that rising prices for corn and tortillas will result from maize shortages caused by the drought. Adriana Paz, president of REMA, requested a meeting with the federal Agricultural Minister, Columba López Gutiérrez, to propose a comprehensive drought relief program that considers gender perspectives. Paz emphasized that without women, there would be no corn and, consequently, no country.