Women Farmers Research Articles

Farm Women and Nutrition Gardens: Constraints and Suggestions

Farm Women and Nutrition Gardens: Constraints and Suggestions

Bridging the Digital Divide: Empowering Rural Women Farmers Through Mobile Technology in Kerala

This research paper investigates the impact of mobile technology on empowering rural women farmers and promoting inclusive agricultural development. The primary emphasis is on how mobile technology enables rural women producers to become more self-reliant in agriculture, promotes market participation, strengthens social connections, facilitates socioeconomic integration, enhances rural quality of life, and fosters sustainable agricultural development. In addition, this study also analyses the influence of demographic factors on the use of mobile technology among rural women farmers. This study was carried out in Kerala, a renowned agricultural state in India. In Kerala, the Palakkad district is known to be the granary of Kerala due to the availability of fertile valleys, rivers, forests, and paddy fields. Data were collected from 192 rural women farmers from Palakkad via semi-structured interviews, questionnaire surveys, and focus group discussions (FGD). The data were analyzed using the paired t-test and Garratt ranking method. The results demonstrate that mobile technology markedly enhances access to agricultural information, market engagement, and social connectivity, resulting in greater empowerment for rural women farmers. Nonetheless, obstacles such as insufficient digital literacy and inadequate mobile infrastructure access persist as considerable impediments. The findings demonstrate the revolutionary potential of mobile phone use in bridging information gaps, empowering women farmers in rural areas, and advancing equitable agricultural development, as well as the barriers faced by rural women in using mobile technology.

Gender analysis of chickpea (Cicer arietinum) yield gap: the case of Ada’a, Ethiopia

One of the primary development challenges hindering poverty reduction in Africa is the existence of a yield gap between female and male farmers. However, previous studies conducted in Ethiopia have largely overlooked the role of gender-related factors in influencing this gap. This article aims to address this gap by examining the chickpea yield disparity between female and male farmers and identifying its determinants. Data were gathered from 325 respondents (163 male and 162 female farmers) in 2019, combining survey responses with qualitative insights from discussions in two women farmers' groups, two men farmers' groups, and four key informant interviews. T-tests and linear regression models were applied to quantify the extent of the yield gap and analyze the factors contributing to it. Additionally, thematic analysis of the qualitative data was conducted to complement the quantitative findings. The study revealed that female farmers produced 29% less chickpea yield in the 2019 production year compared to their male counterparts, and this difference was statistically significant. Factors such as land allocation for chickpea cultivation, soil fertility, labor availability, chickpea variety (improved or local), access to extension services, and participation in farmers' cooperatives were identified as significant contributors to the yield gap. Beyond these technical aspects, gender-related challenges like unequal treatment, restricted mobility, labor demands, and religious/cultural taboos were also factors impeding the productivity of women farmers. Addressing the yield gap necessitates an inclusive approach in all agricultural development endeavors, recognizing and rectifying gender-based disparities to enhance the productivity and livelihoods of female farmers.

Utilization of Media and Institutional Support for Urban Farming in Pekanbaru City

Urban farming is important in supporting food security in urban areas. This study aims to identify the use of communication media in implementing urban farming and supporting institutions in the application of urban farming. This research was conducted using a survey method with samples selected in tiers representing each extension institution of farmer women groups. Furthermore, data were gathered from interviews and FGDs. The results showed that accessing information and communication behavior was in the excellent category with a score of 4.65. There are different types of facilities that are currently used by farmers to access information, namely smartphones where the extension workers always provide information related to farming, and printed extension media such as brochures, flyers, and books related to vegetable farming. Farmer knowledge about information sources is also in an excellent category. They know the types of information sources and how to get information according to their needs that comes from reliable and accurate sources. Farmers received full support from local leaders and the government through the food crops and fisheries office of the city of Pekanbaru with regular counseling held by extension workers, and socialization related to urban farming. Keywords: extension media, institution support, urban farming, women farmer group

The gendered value chain of matooke banana and its implications for tissue culture adoption in Uganda

ABSTRACT Tissue culture banana is promoted as a form of micro-propagation that can aid farmers in managing pests and disease in Uganda, the country with the largest per capita consumption of banana in the world. But uptake amongst smallholder farmers remains low. This study recruited 71 farmers from five banana-growing districts in Uganda to assess how gender dynamics of matooke production impact the adoption and sustained use of tissue culture. We collaborated with farmers and co-produced a three-stage, participatory methodological protocol for mapping value chains. Our analysis reveals a gendered division of labour and limited access to resources that shape farmers’ ability to benefit from this technology. Women farmers are interested in tissue culture banana but face challenges related to demands for land preparation, accessing plantlets, and relevant knowledge, while men are more reluctant due to their fragility, high cost, and the additional labour demands needed to ensure the crop's survival. This study highlights the necessity of understanding the gendered division along a crop’s value chain to ensure the success of new breeding technologies.

Participation of farm women in production of vermicompost

Participation of farm women in production of vermicompost

Sustainable land management and implications on incomes, food self-sufficiency and women

The adoption of Sustainable Land Management (SLM) practices among smallholder farmers remains low, particularly among women farmers. Understanding the relationship between assets, gender, and SLM adoption and how their interaction impinges on household food self-sufficiency and livelihoods is essential for developing gender-responsive SLM programmes that effectively promote sustainable livelihoods and address household food insecurity. This study examines the effects of asset type on SLM practices adoption, women farmers, and their implications on household incomes and food self-sufficiency. Data was collected through a cross-sectional survey of 761 households selected from 11 chiefdoms across six districts in Eastern Zambia. Analysis involved Structural Equation System framework and Propensity Score Matching techniques to examine relationships between SLM adoption, food self-sufficiency, and household incomes, considering various socio-economic factors. Results showed marital status and household size as significant demographics, with education positively correlating with household income and SLM participation (p < 0.05). Gender disparities persisted, with male-headed households having higher incomes. Labour allocation analysis revealed women’s involvement in labour-intensive tasks, while smaller farms showed higher income probabilities, supporting sustainable agricultural intensification. Social capital significantly influenced SLM participation, and access to financial capital. Livestock assets, land size, and crop diversity predicted food security, while male decision-making influenced food security and income. Incomes were higher for women participating in SLM projects. This study underscores the importance of SLM practices in influencing household incomes and food security, especially for women. Addressing gender disparities and promoting women’s empowerment in agriculture are crucial for achieving equitable and sustainable rural development. Policymakers can foster sustainable livelihoods in rural communities by prioritizing SLM and empowering women.

Does cooperative membership facilitate access to credit for women farmers in rural Kenya?

Potential borrowers' demand for credit is restrained by agricultural risk, while microfinance institutions favor male over female farmers because the latter have no collateral. We investigate whether women's membership in cooperatives facilitates access to credit. Primary data from Kenya were used. Descriptive statistics, propensity score matching, and probit regression methods were applied. The results show that 78 % of the respondents did not apply for credit mostly because of high interest rates and being risk-averse; while 60 % of those denied credit were due to lack of collateral. The estimates indicate that joining cooperatives increases the probability of female farmers' access to credit; transparency in cooperatives' financial activities increases the probability of accessing credit by 72 %. Given the core role of cooperatives, there is a need for a favorable environment in which cooperatives can form, develop, and thrive. Cooperatives need support from the government and development agencies to buffer their financial and management capacities and skills training. Subsequently bolstering women farmers' participation in cooperatives.

Mujeres berracas: gendered work, geographies of exclusion, and rice farming in Tolima, Colombia

This article uses a Social Reproduction Theory (SRT) lens to illuminate the lived experiences of women in rice farming in rural Tolima, Colombia, by examining the gender division of labor, the devaluation of women’s work, and geographies of exclusion among farmers and farmworkers. Through the analysis of ethnographic findings, this paper argues that perceptions of women as either berracas [tough, badass, stubborn, and hardworking] or out of place legitimize the devaluation of women’s contributions to the political economy of rice. These gender dynamics create geographies of exclusion, shaping rural livelihoods and exacerbating disparities in resource access. This paper advances SRT’s understandings of agricultural wage labor, class differentiation, and how women navigate, resist, and shape their roles in agrarian communities.

Operationalisation of low-carbon energy for sustainable agricultural production among smallholder women farmers in Nigeria

The use of high-carbon energy (HCE) causes adverse effects on the environment and sustainable food production. Yet, low-carbon energy (LCE) use among women farmers is missing in the literature. Therefore, this study investigates the operationalization of LCE use for sustainable agricultural production among smallholder women farmers in Nigeria. Data collected from randomly selected 350 women farmers were analysed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, and an economics cost model. The results revealed that the women farmers were aware of LCE and used LCE for drying farm output, lighting and heating pens. The average cost of ownership and installation of LCE (solar power systems) by women farmers was N500,000 (USD 510.20) while the cost of ownership/installation of generators was N210,000 (USD 214.29). In the first period, the cost of installing the solar system was higher than that of installing fossil generators by the HCE users. The economic cost model showed that the LCE remained at N500,000 (USD 510.20) while HCE was put at N1,250,000 (USD 1,275.51) in the fifth year. The output of the LCE user (7,108.47 kg) was significantly higher than the users of HCE (4,446.84 kg). In the same vein, users of LCE had a higher income of N1,246,536 (USD 1,271.98) than the users of HCE with an average income of N941,232 (USD 960.44). Thus, the use of LCE is not only for a sustainable environment but also for sustainable production and income. Therefore, this study calls for the promotion of the use of LCE to have a sustainable and productive farming enterprise.

Counseling To The Women's Farmers Association About Emergency Management In The Community "Training On Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (Cpr) And Management Of Febrile Seizures

Counseling To The Women's Farmers Association About Emergency Management In The Community "Training On Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (Cpr) And Management Of Febrile Seizures

Correlates of mental health help-seeking attitudes among farming and nonfarming rural women.

Correlates of mental health help-seeking attitudes among farming and nonfarming rural women.

ESTIMATING THE POVERTY STATUS AMONG GINGER WOMEN FARMERS IN KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA

This research estimated the poverty status among ginger women farmers in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Primary data were used based on a well-designed questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Foster, Greer and Thorbecke (FGT) poverty index, Tobit regression model, and principal component model. The outcome shows that the average age, years of farming experience, and educational level approximate 48 years, 9 years, and 11 years respectively. The poverty line approximate 4, 172.06 Naira (1 USD = 1 104 Naira). The poverty incidence 〖(P〗_0) is approximated at 0.5298, this correspond to 52.98% of ginger women farmers are poor, this add up to the fact that 63 ginger women farmers are poor, while 57 ginger women farmers were non-poor. The poverty depth 〖(P〗_1) which express the depth of an average poor ginger women farmers from poverty line is calculated as 0.2876 this interpret that 28.76% of ginger women farmers are poor. The severity of poverty 〖(P〗_2) which express the distance of each poor ginger women farmers to one another was calculated at 0.1967, this stand for that 19.67% of the ginger women farmers were severely poor. The educational level, years of ginger farming, income from ginger farming, off- farm income and membership of cooperative were different significantly from zero in influencing poverty status among ginger women producers. The major limitations were lack of credit facilities, lack of access to land, and lack of farm inputs. Credit (finance) at single digit interest rate should be made available to ginger women producers.

Strategi Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Melalui UMKM Kelompok Wanita Tani Kenanga Desa Tanjung

The Women Farmers Group is also a forum for self-development for working age women, especially housewives in Tanjung Village, Banyusari District. The Kenanga Women's Farmers Group (KWT) received assistance and assistance from the UPTD of the Banyusari District Agriculture Service and PT. Pertamina. Assistance from the Banyusari District Agriculture Service. The products produced by KWT Kenanga vary, such as herbal food and herbal drinks. The informants in this research were the chairman of KWT Kenanga, members of KWT Kenanga, and the Tanjung Village Community. Based on the research results, the strengths of KWT Kenanga are greater than its weaknesses, namely the overall strength coefficient value is 2.27 and its weaknesses are 1.67 in IFAS, so KWT Kenanga's opportunities are also greater than its threats. According to EFAS, the overall score is 3.14 for opportunities and 1.24 for threats. Based on the results, the SWOT chart of KWT Kenanga indicates its position in quadrant I, indicating a highly favorable situation. The strategy applied in the first quadrant supports an aggressive growth policy (growth-oriented strategy). The situation at KWT Kenanga reinforces the SO strategy, which leverages internal strengths by exploiting external opportunities.

UTILIZATION OF ARECA NUT AS A CORROSION INHIBITOR AND ECOPRINT FABRIC MATERIAL BY THE SUKAKARYA VILLAGE WOMEN'S FARMING GROUP, MUSI RAWAS REGENCY, SOUTH SUMATRA

PT Pertamina EP Pendopo Field, within the GEMILANG (Movement for Women to Preserve Nature through Areca Nut Conservation) program, has successfully empowered the women of Sukakarya Village by promoting the cultivation and utilization of the abundant areca nut trees in the area. As beneficiaries of the GEMILANG program, the Melati Women's Farming Group (KWT Melati) has successfully produced health products from areca nuts, such as ginger areca nut tonic (bandrek) and areca nut juice. Since the program's inception in 2020, KWT Melati has become more productive, engaging in vegetable cultivation and organic fertilizer production using areca nut waste. As the program has grown, GEMILANG has become increasingly inclusive, involving more women from Sukakarya Village. New initiatives under GEMILANG now include the development of areca nuts as a corrosion inhibitor for the industrial sector, using areca nut waste in fabric production through eco-printing techniques, and exporting areca nuts.

High levels of anxiety and depression in women farmers from Ecuador: A cross-section study in Coastal and Highlands regions.

Previous studies have shown that women farmers are particularly vulnerable to mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of anxiety and depression in women farmers from Ecuador Coastal and Highlands regions. General Anxiety Disorder‑7 (GAD‑7) and Patient Health Questionnaire‑9 (PHQ‑9) were applied. In addition, self-reported number of children, days off, hours of work, pesticide use, sleep habits and years of work in agriculture, were also collected. This cross-sectional study occurred during 2023 with 443 women, for Coastal (197) and Highlands (246), respectively. Multivariable binary logistic regression models were performed to obtained adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and their 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). 34.5% of Coastal women had depression, while 27.2% of Highlands women had depression. 20.3% of coastal women farmers had anxiety, while in the Highlands 24.8% had anxiety. Coastal mestizo and montubio women exhibited lower probability of depression, but this was not significant in the Highlands. Coastal women farmers that did not have children showed lower odds of depression (aOR 0.05, 95% CI [0.01, 0.34]). A lower likelihood of depression was observed in coastal women that worked more than 8 hours (aOR 0.22, 95% CI [0.07, 0.72]). Women from the Highlands that had shortened sleep duration exhibited lower odds of depression and anxiety. A higher proportion of depressed women farmers was observed in the Coast region and slightly higher numbers of anxiety cases in the Highlands. The number of children may cause workload and is correlated with depression in Coastal women.

Analysis of posture and carrying loads in agricultural activities performed by farm women

Analysis of posture and carrying loads in agricultural activities performed by farm women

Socio-economic and technological impact of climate resilient technologies on farm women

Socio-economic and technological impact of climate resilient technologies on farm women

Study on extent of empowerment among farm women marketer’s in Telangana state

Study on extent of empowerment among farm women marketer’s in Telangana state

Perceived training needs assessment of tribal farm women engaged in livestock sector of Assam

Perceived training needs assessment of tribal farm women engaged in livestock sector of Assam