A key step for us is to ensure that female coffee farmers receive as much visibility as their male counterparts. By carefully selecting micro-lots from individual women farmers, we aim to highlight their success stories, which are every bit as remarkable as those of their male colleagues.
In the Son La region of northern Vietnam, we work closely with the Detech Cooperative, led by Ms. Ngoc Anh Sprünker. This cooperative is particularly dedicated to empowering local women coffee farmers. We were so impressed by their commitment that we not only support them in business but also actively promote them through membership in the International Women in Coffee Alliance (IWCA) Vietnam. Furthermore, in Vietnam, we collaborate with ethnic groups that uphold matriarchal and matrilineal traditions. We are not here to judge whether these traditions are better or worse than the patriarchal structures more common in Europe; however, it is inspiring to witness the different ways gender roles are naturally expressed and lived in other parts of the world.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, we work with a coffee that is produced exclusively by a group of women at the Ngula Washing Station. In this region, women face disadvantages in many areas, from healthcare and politics to employment opportunities. This exclusive women’s lot is an outstanding example of the productive energy women bring to the economy.
In Peru, too, women are demonstrating their capacity to manage coffee cultivation effectively. We’ve had positive experiences working with women’s micro-lots in Central and Northern Peru. Interestingly, male partners in the region also name their farms and lots after inspiring women from Peruvian history.
Working towards greater gender equality in the coffee industry is a complex endeavor. Gender-sensitive language in our German texts is just one way we aim to underscore the participation of women within our networks.
