Banana sector companies sign commitment to promote female technical employment in the agro-industry

Companies in the banana sector signed the “Sembradoras 2027 Commitment”, an initiative promoted within the framework of the “Sembradoras de Futuro” forum, organized by the Association of Banana Exporters of Ecuador (AEBE) , to promote the employment of female technical staff in operational and supervisory areas of the agro-industry .

The meeting was held within the framework of the International Year of Women Farmers, proclaimed by the United Nations for 2026. Representatives from the agricultural sector, international organizations, producers' associations and companies in the agro-export chain participated, with a shared purpose: to open spaces for dialogue on female leadership, technical employment and the participation of women in the country's food systems .

The opening ceremony featured remarks by Carlos Encalada, Prefect of Guayas , who highlighted the social impact of rural life and productive development in the province. “Behind every box of bananas transported are stories of sacrifice, commitment, and many women who sustain entire communities with their daily work,” he noted.

Jorge Encalada, president of AEBE , recalled his mother's work as an administrator and emphasized the role of women in agriculture. "Like in thousands of Ecuadorian farming families, she was often the invisible force that sustained the family business, the organization of the household, and stability during the most difficult times," he said. During his remarks, he added that of the 5,500 Ecuadorian banana producers, only 8% are women, a figure that reflects the potential for growth in female leadership within the sector. He also indicated that 67% of these women own farms and are involved in administrative and operational tasks as well.

The program included the conference: “Global Framework for Equality: Presentation of the United Nations Women’s Equality Principles,” by Miriam Bandes, UN Women Representative in Ecuador, who shared international guidelines aimed at ensuring equality and greater female presence in the business and productive sectors. The expert emphasized the systemic impact of labor inclusion: “When a woman has access to decent work, social protection, care services, and work environments free from discrimination and violence, the benefits transcend the individual and become collective well-being.”

Likewise, two panels were developed: “Leadership with purpose: Nutrition and Social Development” and “Agri-food Systems: Competitiveness and Leadership” , with voices from the agricultural sector to analyze these topics.

For her part, Gherda Barreto , FAO representative in Ecuador , celebrated the opening of the exporters' association and emphasized that "it is a milestone to be here and see how AEBE is strongly joining this great global chain for rural empowerment." She also expressed her pride in representing Ecuador, a leading country in agricultural exports, before the FAO, and concluded that "Ecuador not only feeds itself, but also feeds the world . "

One of the key moments of the meeting was the signing of the “Sembradoras 2027 Commitment.” The symbolic document was signed by representatives of Agzulasa, Frutadeli, Favorita Fruit Company, Grupasa Grupo Papelero, Comersur , AEBE, FAO, and UN Women.

To close the forum, FAO Ecuador, represented by Gherda Barreto , presented a special recognition to: Carmita Plácida Gia Ajila, from the Tierra Fértil Association; Mónica Herrera, from the San Miguel de Brasil Agroecological and Tropical Fruit Producers Corporation; Gabriela Ramón Brito, from the Guayas Agricultural Association; and Lorgia Cuenca, administrator of AMA.

In addition, industry leaders were recognized: Marianela Ubilla, Vice President of AEBE and CEO of Agzulasa; Lianne Zoeteweij, Manager of ASOGUABO; Sandra Monroy Moreno, Director of AEBE and CEO of Frutadeli; and Gisella Wong, Director of Favorita Fruit.

With this initiative, AEBE reaffirms its commitment to promoting spaces for collaboration between the private sector, international organizations, and producer associations, with the aim of strengthening women's participation in the banana agro-industry and moving towards a more inclusive, competitive, and sustainable value chain.