Empowering Women, Enhancing Sustainability: Exploring the Transformative Impact of Female‐Led Agricultural Cooperatives on SDGs in Morocco

This study investigates the role of women's agricultural cooperatives in Morocco in advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promoting women's empowerment. Using qualitative methods, data were collected through semi‐structured interviews with 56 women from three cooperatives, analyzed thematically to identify key contributions and challenges. Findings reveal that these cooperatives significantly support SDG 5 (gender equality) by enhancing women's leadership and decision‐making participation. They also contribute to SDG 1 (no poverty) by increasing rural household incomes. However, limited literacy and educational opportunities hinder progress toward SDG 4 (quality education). Some cooperatives implement sustainable resource management practices aligned with SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production). Despite structural and educational barriers, women's cooperatives emerge as vital agents for empowerment and sustainable rural development. The study recommends prioritizing adult literacy programs and addressing systemic obstacles to enhance cooperative impact. These insights underscore the potential of cooperative models as scalable grassroots initiatives fostering gender equality and economic growth in rural North Africa. This research offers nuanced evidence on how women's cooperatives catalyze localized SDG achievement and outlines strategies to overcome persistent challenges, informing policymakers and scholars.