Women’s labour and expertise underpins the cocoa and coffee sectors, with women representing 40%-70% of the workforce. Yet, their contribution is often hidden and undervalued. Women face challenges in accessing productive resources, including extension and advisory services, credit and land. Social norms result in high labour and time burdens for women while limiting their participation in decision-making in households, organisations and communities.

This case study series explores how value chain actors can advance equitable outcomes for small-scale producers. Each study describes how different value chain actors implement the principles of equity (distributional, procedural and recognitional) through innovative approaches, strategies and methodologies. The case studies showcase successful approaches to advance understanding of equity, and to inform and inspire the work of ISEAL members and their partners.