Two Chinese women named among FAO’s 100 Women Heroes

Two Chinese women have earned international recognition for their contributions to rural development, agricultural innovation and economic empowerment after being selected among the Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) 100 Women Heroes.

Yu Jinxiu, from Hubei Province, and Dong Minfang, from Hunan Province, are among 99 women announced under the United Nations initiative celebrating outstanding contributions to agriculture, food systems and rural communities.

The recognition forms part of activities marking the International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026, which seeks to highlight women's roles in strengthening food security and creating sustainable rural economies.

Yu, a specialist in traditional Chinese moxibustion therapy, has spent more than two decades promoting skills development and employment opportunities. She has trained over 30,000 practitioners, helping thousands of rural residents, particularly women and persons with disabilities, secure employment or establish businesses.

Dong, meanwhile, has been recognised for advancing agricultural mechanisation and supporting small-scale farmers. As head of two agricultural cooperatives in Hunan Province, she has helped modernise rice production while expanding training, employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for rural women.

According to the FAO, the initiative attracted 609 nominations from 131 members, reflecting the significant contributions women continue to make to global food systems.

The honourees will be celebrated during a ceremony at FAO headquarters in Rome on October 15,

as part of the World Food Forum. The final recipient is expected to be announced at the event.

The recognition highlights China's efforts to combine traditional knowledge, agricultural technology and women's economic participation to strengthen rural livelihoods.

Source: Xinhua/FAO | Adapted for Sino-Carib News