In João Varela, Cabo Verde, the once arid and rocky lands have been transformed into thriving vegetable plots, thanks to the efforts of Isabel Rodrigues, 65, and her determination to cultivate hope through hard work. Isabel recalls spending years clearing stones, battling drought, and preparing the land, despite skepticism from others, ultimately turning it into productive farmland.
Isabel is part of a group of 11 women, mostly heads of households, who overcame domestic isolation to form one of Cabo Verde’s rare exclusively female agricultural associations. Together, they have become key suppliers of fresh produce to the Cabo Verdean Foundation for School Social Action (FICASE), ensuring local schools receive directly sourced vegetables.
Their daily routine is rigorous, beginning at 5 a.m. with household chores and animal care, followed by fieldwork from early morning until sunset. They prepare and plant crops, manage soil fertility, and ensure continuous production, creating a cycle of generosity that supports both their families and neighbors in need.
For these women, agriculture is also a statement of equality. Isabel emphasizes that effort, not gender, defines success on the land. The group advocates for women in agriculture to assert their rights and fight equally for the well-being of their families, demonstrating strength, resilience, and leadership in their community.
The association’s success is underpinned by a strategic approach, including a rotating planting schedule on 2,000 m² plots and agroecological practices without synthetic chemicals. Each harvest provides both food and dignity, showing that collective action empowers women to secure the future of the next generation.
Through the Emergency Support to Producers’ Associations project, FAO has helped modernize the association’s logistics with packaging, transport, and storage support, ensuring fresh produce reaches school canteens and markets in good condition. This partnership strengthens the local value chain, increases income for women farmers, and provides healthier food for children in the region.
