Gender training in aquaculture in northern Vietnam. A report.

Abstract

Described is a pilot project that integrated gender and technology in training and analysis in Vietnam. Many farmers in Vietnam use the VAC system of fishing, farming, and animal husbandry, which makes efficient use of resources and requires low inputs. Excess products are sold locally. Plants are used for food, fiber, and fuel. Waste products are recycled. Small ponds (under 0.5 ha) are created using rainwater. 2-8 tons/ha/year of fish are produced. The dug-out soil is used to build up gardens and house foundations as protection against flooding. Fresh water for the household comes from wells. Garden plots contain various intercropped species. Fruit trees and tuber crops are cultivated in shady areas. Timber trees and rattan are planted to form tree fences. Taro is planted around the ponds, and marsh lentils are planted on pond surfaces. Various fish feed in the top, middle, and bottom portions of ponds. Gourd is grown on trellises above the ponds. Pig manure is used for plant and fish food. Pond water, which is rich in nutrients and sludge, is used to fertilize gardens. During 1995-96, a pilot program provided training in aquaculture for poor rural women in the villages of My Xa and My Tan in Nam Ha province and Tuan Chinh and Yen Dong in Vihn Phu province in the north. The analysis identified gender relations in management, control of aquaculture, decision-making, and use of benefits. The concept of gender was explained to women in the training program. Women were more concerned with the technical training. The position of women improved in participation, decision-making, and control over benefits. The technical transfer of knowledge was viewed as less important than gender awareness. The aim to improve women's position should be clearly identified. Community participation in the training of trainers was beneficial. Follow-up activities continued during 1997-99.