Sara Mouhsine Carvajal said industry must do more to recognise critical role women play in the sector and the challenges they still face
As the world prepares to mark International Women’s Day on 8 March, the CEO of a leading Moroccan grower-exporter is calling on the country to do more to support the empowerment of women in agriculture.
Sara Mouhsine Carvajal, a businesswoman with over 20 years of experience in the fresh produce sector who leads two companies specialising in vegetables and berries, is committed to transforming Morocco’s agricultural sector into a more inclusive and sustainable industry, ensuring that women play a central role.
“For me, business is not just about financial gain; it must serve a greater social purpose,” she told Fruitnet. “Agriculture is not only about producing food, but also about creating opportunities, improving lives, and fostering sustainable communities. If we do not invest in the people – especially the women – who sustain this industry, we are failing to see the bigger picture.”
Carvajal said the industry must do more to recognise the critical role of women in agriculture and the challenges they still face.
In Morocco, significant progress has been made in women’s rights and economic participation, thanks to key reforms led by King Mohammed VI, including the Family Code (Moudawana). These reforms have strengthened women’s legal rights and improved access to education, employment, and leadership. However, deep-rooted social and structural barriers continue to limit opportunities for women in agriculture.
Many women struggle with limited access to education, leadership opportunities, and financial independence, despite being the driving force behind the industry.
As part of her commitment to women’s empowerment, Carvajal recently took part in an event organised by Global Women Fresh (GWF), a global network dedicated to advancing women in the fresh produce industry, at February’s Fruit Logistica.
There, she emphasised that real change must happen at the local and corporate level. Businesses, governments, and society must work together to ensure that women in agriculture receive the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive.
Carvajal’s own companies have taken concrete steps to support women, including providing training and education in agricultural management and leadership; ensuring equal pay and stable employment for women; establishing childcare facilities to support working mothers; and promoting women into leadership roles to increase gender diversity in decision-making.
“This International Women’s Day, the focus must go beyond celebration – it is a call to action,” Carvajal said. “Investing in women is not only a moral responsibility but also an economic necessity for the sustainability and growth of the agricultural industry.”
