AEBE initiative targets more women in agroindustry jobs

Companies from Ecuador’s banana sector have signed the “Compromiso Sembradoras 2027”, an initiative aimed at increasing women’s access to technical jobs in agroindustry.

The commitment was signed during the “Sembradoras de Futuro” forum, organised by the Ecuadorian Banana Exporters Association (AEBE). The event brought together agricultural companies, producer associations and international organisations to discuss women’s leadership, technical employment and their role in the country’s food systems.

According to AEBE president Jorge Encalada, women currently represent only 8% of Ecuador’s 5,500 banana producers. He said this shows there is still significant room to expand female leadership in the sector. Among women producers, 67% own farms and also take part in administrative and operational work.

The symbolic commitment was signed by representatives from the banana sector, international organisations and partner institutions. Its goal is to encourage more inclusive hiring and strengthen women’s participation in operational and supervisory roles across the banana value chain.

The forum also included discussions on equality principles, nutrition, social development, competitiveness and leadership in agrifood systems. FAO Ecuador recognised several women from producer associations and leaders from the banana sector for their contribution to agriculture and rural development.

AEBE said the initiative is part of its wider effort to connect the private sector, international organisations and producer associations in support of a more inclusive, competitive and sustainable banana industry.

source and photo: aebe.com.ec