In different regions of Peru, a group of women are transforming more than just cocoa farms: they’re leading a profound change in their communities. By working with sustainable practices, technical knowledge, and leadership, they are proving that cocoa can be a tool for true empowerment. What happens when an opportunity empowers a woman to trust in herself and her land? This is a story of results, transformation, and a promising future.

1. The role of women in the cocoa value chain: challenges and opportunities​

In Peru, women farmers are a fundamental pillar for the sustainable development of the cocoa sector. However, they still face significant barriers: less visibility in decision-making spaces, limited access to technical assistance and financing, and an unequal burden of family responsibilities.

However, women in the cocoa sector are demonstrating that their leadership is key to advancing toward more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable agri-food systems.

According to Inforegión (2023), they not only actively participate in the production, but also in the processing and commercialization of cocoa. Their commitment, combined with ancestral knowledge, allows them to conserve biodiversity, maintain organic practices, and generate positive impacts in their communities.

2. Project Nuwa Muun: women leading the change​

At Machu Picchu Foods, we are committed to contributing to a fairer and more inclusive development through Project Nuwa Muun—”great woman” in the Awajún language—an initiative that promotes the economic and productive autonomy of women cocoa farmers in the Peruvian Amazon.

Three years ago, we began working hand-in-hand with 25 women organic cocoa producers in Junín, Satipo, and Ucayali, with a common goal: to sustainably increase productivity and strengthen their role within the value chain.

Today, the results speak for themselves:

• 🚜 259 tons of organic fertilizer delivered.​​
• 📈 +19% increase in productivity in the last harvest.​​​
• 🌱 Projected to exceed +24% by the end of 2025​.​​

This comprehensive model includes technical assistance in sustainable agricultural practices, organic fertilization, grafting, and post-harvest programs, as well as workshops focused on leadership, self-esteem, and decision-making.

3. Margarita: a story of transformation​

This is how the story of Margarita begins, a cocoa producer who has transformed her life and her family’s thanks to this project. On her farm, located in the high Peruvian jungle, she cultivates organic cocoa with dedication and effort.

“With Nuwa Muun, I learned to take care of my land, to trust in myself, and to improve my crops.” – Margarita Camarena Soto, Farmer

Her story embodies the project’s purpose: to improve the quality of life for women farmers, increase sustainable cocoa production, and recognize female leadership as a driver of change in their communities.

“Margarita’s work reflects what we seek with Nuwa Muun: a growing organic production led by empowered women.” – Victor Velásquez, Regional Supervisor.

4. Beyond Nuwa Muun: a commitment to sustainability

Project Nuwa Muun is just one part of the commitment we have at Machu Picchu Foods to social and environmental sustainability.

We also work on other initiatives focused on regenerative practices, biodiversity, fair trade, and reducing environmental impact throughout our supply chain. We believe that true sustainability is born when actions are coordinated to benefit both people and the planet.

5. An invitation to join forces

Behind every Nuwa Muun woman is a story of resilience, learning, and transformation. At Machu Picchu Foods, we believe that sustainability is built with partnerships, respect, and inclusion.

Therefore, we invite our partners, clients, and public and private institutions to join forces to continue strengthening the role of women farmers in the cocoa value chain.

Women like Margarita, in the Peruvian Amazon, are ready to lead the change.