Women Economic Empowerment Through Non Timber Forest Products in Gimbo District, South West Ethiopia

Abstract

In many communities there are limited income-generating opportunities for women. Fortunately, NTFP activities are one of the few cash-generating opportunities for women in marginalized rural communities. Nevertheless, increasing pressure on forests and biodiversity has increased the pressure on rural women. We investigated the factors influencing the income that women drive from NTFPs collection. In addition, our research also investigated the contribution of NTFPs income for the total annual income of the women and for reducing income inequality in Gimbo District. Two kebeles were selected based on NTFPs availability, level of forest exploitation activities of the people and nearness to road. Data were collected from 120 selected women through structured interviews, focus group discussions, market assessments as well as field observation. Though NTFPs accounted for 53.76% of the annual income for women, its contribution is affected by different factors. A multiple linear regression model was used to identify factors that affect the income from NTFPs. Out of eight variables included in the regression, four variables such as non NTFPs (other) income, time spent in NTFPs collection, proximity to the forest and distance to market significantly affected the income women derive from NTFP activities. The contribution of NTFPs income in reducing income inequality was analyzed by using Gini Coefficient. Comparing the Gini index with and without NTFPs production (income), the income disparity lowered from 0.40 to 0.27 in the inclusion of NTFPs. Therefore, empowering women through NTFP activities can create significant opportunity for women in terms of income and in reducing income inequality. Thus, policy programs should due attention in improving alternative sources of income for women in the study area.