Ten outstanding Vietnamese women were honoured at a ceremony in Ho Chi Minh City on October 15. The event shows why supporting women in agriculture matters for Vietnam’s food supply and community wellbeing.

The ceremony was part of FAO’s global “100 Women Heroes in Agrifood Systems and Rural Development” initiative and the International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026. It highlighted the role of women in strengthening Vietnam’s food system.

The honoured women work in research, entrepreneurship, agricultural extension and technology, all aimed at improving the value and sustainability of farm products. Their diverse contributions illustrate how women can drive innovation across the agrifood sector.

FAO Representative in Vietnam Vinod Ahuja said that equal access to land, capital, knowledge and markets for women is crucial for agricultural development and for improving community quality of life. He stressed that these opportunities are essential for a resilient food system.

When women are empowered, crop yields rise, children receive better nutrition and communities become more resilient to challenges. Recognising and supporting women farmers therefore strengthens Vietnam’s food security and overall stability.