Contribution to sustainable rural production through a gender-sensitive and cultural approach

Introduction

This Triangular Cooperation Initiative, supported through the ADELANTE Window, brought together academic, public, and civil society organisations from Latin America and Europe to address the challenges of rural development and sustainable food production in the face of climate change. Anchored by the University of Sancti Spíritus José Martí Pérez (UNISS) in Cuba, the Initiative developed a model of sustainable rural production grounded in gender-sensitive and cultural approaches, integrating social and environmental priorities with territorial development goals.

The Partnership built on the practical experience of Hidroagrícola de Guanajuato (Mexico) in efficient food production, and the expertise of Solidaridad para el Desarrollo y la Paz (SODePAZ, Spain) in applying gender and cultural perspectives to development work. The Initiative also engaged key Cuban institutions, including the Ministry of Agriculture (MINAG), the Federation of Cuban Women (FMC), the Provincial Department of Culture and Arts, and the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Environment (CITMA).

Through technical exchanges, study visits, collaborative research, and application of knowledge in real farming contexts, the Initiative contributed to designing more inclusive and resilient production models in the province of Sancti Spíritus, offering a replicable approach for other territories..

Objectives

The Initiative strengthened the capacity of partner entities to design strategies and implement sustainable production initiatives that address the impacts of climate change, while effectively integrating gender and cultural dimensions.

Project activities

• Four study visits across Cuba, Mexico, and Spain focused on:
  • Efficient food production and diversification.
  • Water efficiency and sustainable agriculture.
  • Beekeeping traditions and innovation.
  • Fair trade and organic agriculture practices.
• Participatory fieldwork involving women farmers and producer groups.
• Two thematic studies:
  • Assessment with a Gender-Based Approach.
  • Study on Cultural Traditions in Sancti Spíritus and Guanajuato.
• Workshops on topics such as climate change, organic farming, and local cultural practices.
• Closing workshop to systematise results and showcase application in local farms.

Expected results

The Initiative resulted in tangible improvements in institutional capacity and rural production practices in Sancti Spíritus. Collaboration between institutions and local communities fostered a dynamic exchange of knowledge and empowered farmers—especially women—to adopt new, inclusive, and sustainable methodologies.

The practical application of knowledge on selected farms became a powerful demonstration of impact, with visible changes in production methods and collaborative learning among producers. The integration of gender and culture from the planning stages onward proved essential in increasing the relevance and effectiveness of rural development interventions.

The two thematic studies deepened the technical and social understanding of local production contexts and offer guidance for future projects. The Initiative also sparked new inter-institutional relationships, encouraging collaboration and shared strategies that can be carried forward.

Despite broader socio-economic challenges in Cuba, the knowledge generated continues to be applied by several actors, and bilateral cooperation remains active. The lessons learned hold strong potential for replication and scaling when conditions permit, laying a solid foundation for inclusive territorial development.

Implementing partners

Universidad de Sancti Spíritus José Martí Pérez – UNISS (Cuba) – Beneficiary

Ministry of Agriculture – MINAG (Cuba) – Beneficiary

Federation of Cuban Women – FMC (Cuba) – Beneficiary

Provincial Department of Culture and Arts (Cuba) – Beneficiary

CITMA Subdelegation for the Environment (Cuba) – Beneficiary

Hidroagrícola de Guanajuato S.A. (Mexico) – First Provider

Solidaridad para el Desarrollo y la Paz – SODePAZ (Spain) – Second Provider