The role of women in the global coffee industry is continuously evolving, and today it exerts a significant influence throughout the entire supply chain of this sector. Starting right at the farms, women showcase leadership and contribute to sustainability and economic growth through diversification initiatives that yield additional income streams, such as crafts, coffee-based products, and tourism. Their substantial impact on coffee quality and productivity is complemented by their engagement in various facets, encompassing marketing, cupping, roasting, and barista expertise.
María José Rodríguez - International Sales Executive at ElevaFinca, Cindy Saballet - Manager of De La Sierra Trilladora owned by RioSierra, and Mildred Niebles - Quality Manager at Red Ecolsierra, during the process evaluation visit at De La Sierra Trilladora.
The increased visibility of women's contributions to coffee farming has led to substantial advancements aimed at reducing, and even eliminating, gender disparities. This progress has garnered the attention of key stakeholders within the business ecosystem. In the market, there are coffees exclusively cultivated by women and certified by international labels that ensure traceability and enhance the value of these exceptional coffees, celebrated for their exceptional quality. Notable labels include Women Care Certified and Con Manos de Mujer.
Mrs. Beatriz Martha Nuñez Martínez, participant of the SAF-BOSAR program and owner of El Jardín farm located in Vereda Minca Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta - Colombia, associated with Red Ecolsierra. During the visit, she was accompanied by Lilia Gutierrez, who is responsible for ESG Impact at Ecotierra.
Colombia stands as an example of efforts and progress in gender equality within the coffee industry. The National Federation of Coffee Growers of Colombia estimates that 25% of individuals involved in coffee cultivation in the country are women. As a response, in 2021, they introduced the "Gender Equity Policy for Women Coffee Growers." This policy aims to bridge gender gaps within the coffee sector and beyond, extending to Colombian agriculture as a whole.
Women's Committee of the El Gran Mirador Coffee Agricultural Producers Association aims to empower and uplift women in the coffee industry.
In both Colombia and Peru, within the partner organizations of Ecotierra-ElevaFinca, women's committees are actively established. These committees aim to create secure and inclusive spaces that bring value to the female presence in the coffee industry. Noteworthy among these allies are:
In Colombia: Red Ecolsierra, Coocafé, ASOANEI, Federación Campesina del Cauca, and ASOPEP.
In Peru: Cooperativa Agraria Cafetalera La Prosperidad, APROCASSI, Valle Verde (Rodriguez de Mendonz), and El Gran Mirador Coffee.
Collectively, these initiatives involve over 1,000 women coffee cultivators, contributing to the production of around 1,500,000 kilograms of coffee. This diverse range of coffee showcases varying qualities, processing techniques, and certifications.
Today and always, the pivotal role of women in coffee cultivation remains fundamental and invaluable. They have played a substantial part in the industry's accomplishments over time, demonstrating resilience in the face of new challenges.
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