Cumalı Women's Cooperative boosts rural income in Zonguldak

The Cumalı Women's Cooperative in the Çaycuma district of Zonguldak is transforming the manual labor of rural women into economic value. Established approximately four years ago, the cooperative consists of 15 members, including agricultural engineers, chemists, tradespeople, and housewives.

Led by Aynur Çakar, the group focuses on providing a platform for women who produce goods in their fields and gardens but struggle to find markets. The cooperative sells various handmade products, such as pasta, jams, St. John's wort oil, molasses, tarhana, and fruit compotes, through central locations and social media.

The initiative aims to increase female employment and provide financial independence, particularly for young women and divorcees. By centralizing production and sales, the cooperative helps members secure additional income to cover household needs and educational expenses for their children.