Interview 8 – Hope for Better Gender Equality

Can you tell me about your background?

My name is Bouchra. I am from the city of Fes. I work here in manual craft production. I make products by hand. I have been working here for about three years. Before that, I worked in a hotel at the reception. Then I left and came here to work with my brother.

What are your working hours here?

Sometimes I work long hours, up to around 12 hours per day depending on the workload

Can you tell me about women’s situation working in this sector?

I would be very happy if there were initiatives specifically for women. For example, working within a women’s cooperative.

There are many women who have skills and know-how, but they stay at home because no one supports them. If there were cooperatives or structured organisations, it would help a lot of women. They could work, earn money, and have some protection. If they get sick, they would have support. If it is good for us, for the country, and for everyone, then it is a good thing. I would leave everything and go

Do you think the economy of the sector could formalise?

Yes, I would change. If I find a better opportunity with higher income, I would change without hesitation. I have no problem switching jobs if it improves my situation. I would be happy to work in a formal and legal framework, it is not easy. To work legally, you need to have your own shop and proper conditions.

If you are renting a place, you can be asked to leave at any time. That makes it risky to invest in formalisation. Also, there are administrative requirements and taxes.

Here are different payments, like sanitation taxes and other local fees. Officials also come regularly, so there are obligations that make things more complicated

Is formalised work in agriculture a possibility in the economy?

Even if I have no prior experience, I would be willing to try. I am open to different types of work