Gender, empowerment, and rural sustainable development: A case study of crab business integration

Abstract The study explores the integration of gender roles within local economic organizations (LEOs) to support sustainable rural development, using Ampekale Village in Indonesia as a case study. While existing studies acknowledge women’s significant contributions to post-harvest fisheries and rural entrepreneurship, there remains limited understanding of the shared roles of men and women in business settings. This study addresses this gap by examining gender-specific contributions and task allocation in business operations, focusing on the Ujung Parappa company, a leading LEO in crab capture and processing. Employing a case study methodology, which included purposive sampling, in-depth interviews with business participants and development facilitators, and descriptive analysis, the research provides critical insights. The findings reveal that women, more than men, possess a comprehensive understanding of LEO functions and actively engage in economic activities, particularly in processing and marketing. LEOs play a vital role in providing training and financial support, which boosts productivity and strengthens the resilience of their members. Furthermore, the study underscores how integrating crab fishing enterprises managed by men with crab processing enterprises operated by women fosters gender-inclusive business practices. This integration promotes community empowerment, generates employment, and enhances income, thereby contributing to sustainable economic growth. These results underscore the importance of balanced gender involvement in advancing rural socio-economic development and inform policies that aim to strengthen gender equality and sustainable practices. This research contributes to the broader discourse on strategies for rural development that leverage inclusive business practices to achieve resilient and thriving communities.