Abstract
Land ownership, a critical factor in food security, is particularly significant in sub-Saharan Africa, where agriculture is the primary source of income and sustenance for many. This study, which focused on Migori County, Kenya, examined the gender dynamics of land ownership and their impact on food security. Anchored on the sociological institutionalism theory, the study used a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from a household survey (n=250) with qualitative data from in-depth interviews with key informants (n=20) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) (n=4). The paper delves into how cultural norms, inheritance practices, and a weak legal framework perpetuate these inequalities. The study’s findings, which reveal a persistent gender gap in land ownership, with men disproportionately controlling land titles and decision-making power, are essential. This patriarchal land system restricts women’s access to land, hindering their agricultural productivity and contribution to household food security in particular and human security in general. The study recommends legal reforms to entrench women’s right to land ownership and use, cultural sensitization programs, and promotion of innovative land access models such as joint titling and land leases. These recommendations can potentially make a tangible difference in the lives of women in Migori County, significantly improving their food security.
Published Version
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