Kinship structures, gender and groundnut productivity in Malawi

Abstract

Social structures, as embodied in traditions, institutions, moral codes, and norms, shape the different roles of men and women in the diverse contexts of Sub-Saharan Africa. The study investigated the influence of ‘kinship structure’ in shaping gendered differences in groundnut production in Malawi. Depending on region, Malawian communities have unique matrilineal and patrilineal kinships where land and land rights are passed through either female or male lineages. Data were collected in three districts in Malawi, where groundnut is farmed, but where the kindship structures differ. We show that kinship structures shape household headship, which in turn shapes access to and control of resources, women’s and men’s agency, and groundnut production outcomes. Key findings show that cultural norms through kinship structures of patriarchal and matrilineal lineages are still key institutions that determine gender roles and influence intra-household power relations in all three districts. These kinship structures shape residency and household headship which in turn uniquely shape women’s and men’s agency, further determining gendered productivity differentials. Kinship systems further lead to gender-specific and gender-intensified constraints that are systemic for both men and women. Feminisation of agriculture is on the rise in the southern region of Malawi due to out-migration of men to South Africa. Lastly, an untapped youth dividend exists that can boost overall groundnut productivity. To rationalise development interventions, we recommend efforts that are informed by local realities and social structures, as well as their implications for the development agenda.