The violence in Ecuador manifests itself in diverse forms: sexual, physical, paternal, and psychological. Since 2020, the country has reported data figures that reflect the high level of physical violence present. According to the data from the Ecuadorian Attorney General’s office, homicide against women occurs every 2.8 days; this violence against women is even more prevalent within their own homes. Another type of vulnerability that women experience is economically related. According to The National Institute of Statistics and Census, the unemployment rate of women is 6.5% whereas men have an unemployment rate of 4%. This project will work to provide opportunity to these women—promoting a system of greater equality in Ecuador.

Based on this evidence, the project aims to provide new tools to women who live in the different communities that surround Dunamis. These tools will help women to empower themselves through knowledge that will provide them with new opportunities. 

The purpose of this project is the production of goldenberries because goldenberries are a fruit with many health benefits. For this reason, it is an economically desirable product. This fruit requires special care and regular monitoring by knowledgeable technicians so that it can be successfully cultivated. When this process begins, the technicians will conduct regular visits to the plantations of the individual families to regulate the growth of the golden berries. Additionally, they will be a resource to the women to answer any questions they may have about their production. By addressing their concerns, the technicians will work alongside the women to teach them how to sustain their own crop. In addition to these visits, production workshops will also take place where participants will learn more about the general care of goldenberries as well as other crops that pique their interest. These workshops will promote food sovereignty and sustainable consumption among the families. 

Dunamis will purchase the produce directly from the women and following this process will sell it to Produntankay. Produntankay is a private business, participating as a strategic ally to Dunamis so as to promote the sale of goldenberries in the larger local market.  This is so that the structure of the organization will be sustainable over time; and with this business model, fair trade will be implemented.