New Case Study from TechnoServe Highlights Women’s Economic Empowerment in Peru’s Coffee Sector

The case study highlights impactful strategies for achieving gender equality in coffee production

ARLINGTON (October 23, 2024) – As part of its ongoing efforts to promote gender equality in coffee production, TechnoServe announces the publication of a comprehensive case study titled “Women’s Leadership and Economic Empowerment in Peru’s Coffee Sector: Gender Equality in Coffee Production.” This report highlights the successful methodologies of the Coffee Alliance for Excellence (CAFE) and Mujeres CAFE programs, initiatives of USAID Peru implemented by TechnoServe with support from JDE Peet’s and the Starbucks Foundation, in advancing gender equity, improving livelihoods, and empowering women within Peru’s coffee industry.

The case study examines the systemic barriers that women face in the agricultural supply chain and outlines strategies that have successfully enhanced women’s participation in coffee production. Through a focus on leadership development, expanding economic opportunities, and shifting cultural norms, the CAFE and Mujeres CAFE programs have transformed the role of women in Peru’s coffee sector, contributing to sustainable development and inclusive communities.

Key Achievements of Rural Women in the Coffee Industry in Peru:

• Women now hold 59% of leadership positions in participating coffee cooperatives.
• 97% of participants reported gaining greater control over their income.
• 88% of women trained in leadership reported greater decision-making power at both farm and household levels.
• Both men and women experienced significant income increases compared to the baseline—292% for women and 197% for men—resulting in a reduction in the gap between the household income for men and women from 31% to 11%.

“We hope that this sheds light on effective strategies to advance gender equality in agricultural value chains, like coffee, where women have historically been overlooked,” said Cristina Manfre, TechnoServe’s global gender director. “The recognition of women as farmers and leaders is essential to the growth and resilience of the coffee industry”

For more information on the report or to download the case study, visit this link.

About TechnoServe:

Founded in 1968, TechnoServe is a leader in harnessing the power of the private sector to help people lift themselves out of poverty for good. A non-profit organization working in around 35 countries, we work with people to build a better future through regenerative farms, businesses, and markets that increase incomes. Our vision is a sustainable world where all people in low-income communities have the opportunity to prosper.

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