This is an essay from OXFAM online discussion on “The Future of Agriculture” posted on Dec 16th, 2012. The author, Madiodio Niasse, Secretariat Director of International Land Coalition (ILC), highlights that while farming is increasingly reliant on women’s labour, women’s lack of secure land tenure severely limits their influence over farming decisions. Closing the gender gap in land rights would increase productivity and total output. And it would help women exercise their rights as citizens.