An exploration of the dimensions, roles, and barriers to women's empowerment in livestock farming in Colombia

La Montañita (literally “little mountain” in English) is one of the municipalities in the department of Caquetá, Colombia, where dual-purpose livestock farming is the predominant productive activity, and where many rural women have a very active role in it. Despite the sector’s relevance to the well-being of women and their households, women’s role in livestock production, and how these roles contribute to their empowerment, has received little attention.

This was the main goal of a study that explored how women’s roles, their recognition as livestock producers, and their access to resources and opportunities within the livestock sector influence their empowerment. Through interviews and focus groups, the analysis focused on four key dimensions: recognition, access to resources, access to opportunities, and decision-making power. Below are the main findings: