Hidden Roles but Visible Value: Women in the Rubber Sector

Rubber is widely perceived as a predominately male sector in Liberia. Men are found in highly visible roles as farm owners and tappers and dominate activities that provide better income, such as selling rubber or supervisory positions.

This does not mean, however, that women are absent from the sector. GROW’s research uncovered the numerous and essential roles women play across the value chain and successfully challenged the widely held perception of rubber as male sector.

Rubber farms who employ women and train them recognise the returns this brings. Women are diligent and productive tappers and reliable workers bringing value to the businesses. Employing and investing in women can lead to better profits for business, better outcomes for communities and truly inclusive economic growth.

Read more in our Women’s’ Economic Empowerment Learning Note