ON 25TH NOVEMBER, CORENET PROMOTES INTERNATIONAL INITIATIVES AGAINST WOMEN VIOLENCE
Highlights on women entrepreneurship and social initiatives in agriculture: stories and experiences from “Coldiretti Donne”.
In November 2024, Coldiretti (the main farmers’ organisation in Italy and Europe) hosted the second edition of “Amiche della terra, storie di donne che nutrono il mondo” (Friends of the soil, stories of women who nourish the world), which aims to celebrate women entrepreneurship in agriculture.
The award represents a great opportunity to showcase the activities and achievements of agricultural companies led by women entrepreneurs, but also raise awareness of how women are becoming increasingly central to renew the agri-food sector with commitment, creativity and a great spirit of innovation.
In Italy, almost 200.000 women have chosen to invest in agriculture, revolutionizing the sector and challenging prejudices. According to Coldiretti, over one farm out of four (28%) is now led by women, who operate in different farming areas such as breeding, cultivation, floriculture and agritourism. Furthermore, they are active in social initiatives, such as educational farms and creation of job opportunities for women in difficulty. Among these entrepreneurs, the young share stands out: around 13.000 companies are in fact led by women under 35, who focus on innovation and technology. This increasing interest and contribution of women to farming reflects the growing attractiveness of agriculture as a sector of professional opportunities.
The new female farmers are present throughout Italy, with Sicily, Apulia and Campania in the first places for the number of female farms. Almost one in four has a degree, often in sectors not related to agriculture, and as many as 50% combine the primary activity (simple cultivation) with many other activities such as agritourism, kindergartens, educational farms, agri-cosmetics and particular attention to social issues, with the inclusion of people with difficult experiences and women victims of violence. More than 60% adopt sustainable practices, such as organic production, protection of biodiversity and animal welfare.
For more information about the event visit the full article published by Coldiretti.
Image source: www.foodaffairs.it; www.pianetapsr.it
