Apr. 22 – “In these small jars, there are many messages, above all one of cooperation between FAO, Eataly, and the Italian and Ethiopian governments. The jar is also the symbol of the role women play in the construction of sustainable lifestyles, and the defense of the universal right to food. These hars also represent the opportunity given to small farmers to access the international market with quality products,” explains the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Lapo Pistelli, commenting on the partnership between FAO and Eataly, supported by the Italian Development Cooperation, which is bringing prickly pear jam produced in the African country to the Eataly store in Rome. A women’s cooperative in Ethiopia, in the region of Tigris, can produce more than 1,500 kg of prickly pear jam, thanks to this partnership, the jam reaches over 4000 jars, fully in line with the Ethiopian and European food safety standards. “These jars – reads a note – represent the power that certain creative partnerships can have in the empowerment of farmers and to facilitate their access to markets.” “We are here to give proper recognition to the role of family and especially the key role of women for food security in Africa,” complemented FAO Director-General Graziano da Silva during an event organized to celebrate the results of the initiative. “FAO – he adds – is grateful to Eataly for giving embracing this product for distribution alongside gourmet products here in Europe.” The Ethiopian ambassador to Italy, Mulugeta Alemseged Gessese, said that this type of work can open new horizons and inspire small producers in developing countries to aim high. “This is a revolutionary project. Who could imagine that a small group of women from a remote village in Africa could reach the European market? It’s a positive message to all women in Ethiopia, because it shows that it is possible for them to enter the market and make a profit, if they are guaranteed the necessary support, knowledge and skills.” (Red)
