Women Farmers Research Articles

Pembuatan Sistem Pencatatan Pinjaman Kelompok Wanita Tani Berbasis Web Menggunakan Metode V-Model

This research focuses on designing a web-based loan recording system for the Jati Mekar Women Farmers Group (KWT) in Sindanglaut Village. KWT Jati Mekar is an organization consisting of women farmers in Sindanglaut Village who have joined together to improve their welfare and productivity through various agricultural and economic activities.The main objective of the research is to develop a system that can increase efficiency and accuracy in recording group members' loans. The methodology used is the V-Model, which allows for structured and systematic system development through stages of requirements analysis, design, implementation, testing, and maintenance.This system is designed to facilitate the process of recording, monitoring, and reporting loans, as well as increasing transparency in the group's financial management. During the development process, blackbox testing was conducted to evaluate the system's functionality without examining the internal code structure. This testing focuses on the system's inputs and outputs, ensuring that each feature functions according to expected specifications.The research results show that the implementation of this web-based system can address problems that often occur in manual recording, such as inaccurate data and difficulties in tracking loan status. Blackbox testing verifies that the system can handle various usage scenarios correctly, including member data management, loan recording, and report generation.

PKM Institutional Strengthening of the Women's Farm Labor Group in Belantih Village, Kintamani District, Bangli Regency

Women farmers have almost the same role as male farmers, in fact they are directly involved in various stages of activities, especially during the planting and post-harvest period. The development of women farmers in rural areas is fostered through a group forum. To strengthen the institution of the Women Farmers group and focus on coaching, the implementation of the activity was carried out at the Mabi Subak Hall, Belantih Village. It began with a Coordination Meeting of the Farmer Women Group which was opened by the head of Belantih Village who was accompanied by the head of Banjar Mabi hamlet. The Women's Farm Workers Group (KWBT) is an agricultural institution created with the aim of facilitating the activities of women agricultural workers from the orange plant maintenance sector, farm worker equipment assistance, capital to innovation in processing post-harvest orange products into innovative products that have a selling value.

Inovasi Limbah Jagung Hibrida menjadi Briket Arang sebagai Upaya Peningkatan Literasi Ekonomi Masyarakat Kabupaten Enrekang Sulawesi Selatan

This community service program aims to enhance the knowledge and skills of the members of the Papaling Women's Farmers Group (KWT.PAPALING) in processing hybrid corn waste into charcoal briquettes (bricorn) as an effort to improve the community's economic literacy. The implementation methods for this service include situational and problem analysis, economic literacy workshops, charcoal briquette (bricorn) production training, charcoal briquette (bricorn) marketing training, followed by an evaluation phase. The evaluation instruments used in this activity are questionnaires, which are analyzed descriptively. The activity is carried out in Bamba Puang Village, Anggeraja District, Enrekang Regency, South Sulawesi Province. The result of this community service activity is the increased knowledge and skills of KWT.PAPALING members in processing hybrid corn waste into charcoal briquettes. Additionally, the community has learned how to calculate production costs, set competitive selling prices, and implement effective marketing strategies. With this enhanced knowledge and skills, the community is expected to independently manage the production of bricorn, thereby increasing family income and improving local economic well-being.

Impact of improved cassava cultivars on income generation and food security of women farmers in Mkuranga district, Tanzania

PurposeThe study was conducted to investigate the impact of improved cassava cultivars on income generation and food security status of women farmers in Tanzania.Design/methodology/approachData were collected from 300 respondents (150 with improved cassava cultivars and 150 without) who were selected using purposive and random sampling techniques. Double Difference, Descriptive Statistics were the analytical tools. The Cost-of-Calorie Index was used to measure food security status of the respondents.FindingsResults show that Double Difference estimates indicated that the annual income of the women farmers with improved cassava cultivars increased by TZS 143,495.20 which was higher than that of the women farmers without improved cassava cultivars which increased by only TZS 58,500. There was a positive impact on income as a result of using the improved cassava cultivars. The Cost-of-Calorie Index showed that the food security line per adult equivalent per month was TZS 2,743.81 and TZS 2,076.69 for farmers with and without improved cassava cultivars respectively. About 66% of the women farmers with improved cassava cultivars and 33% of the women farmers without improved cassava cultivars were food secure. Policies should be formulated to encourage women farmers to adopt and sustain the use of improved cultivars of cassava.Research limitations/implicationsThe research may be limited by its scope and generalizability, as it focuses on a specific geographic area (Mkuranga District) and demographic group (women farmers).Social implicationsThe study shed light on the role of agricultural interventions in empowering women economically and enhancing their food security, potentially leading to improved social status and decision-making power within their households and communities.Originality/valueThe study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by emphasizing the benefits for women farmers when using improved cassava cultivars for income generation and food sufficiency.

Peran Wanita Tani dalam Meningkatkan Perekonomian Keluarga (Studi Kasus Kelompok Wanita Tani (KWT) Bumi Lestari)

Nowadays, the role of women farmers is no less important in the family's economic activities. Apart from economic conditions and the status of women farmers who are also wives and mothers, many other factors make women farmers involved in family activities. This research aims to: 1) find out the role of women farmers in improving the family economy, and 2) find out the factors that influence the role of women farmers in improving the family economy. This research was carried out in Purwobinangun Village, Pakem District, Sleman Regency, Yogyakarta on February, 2024. The method used in this research was descriptive quantitative with a census method, namely using the entire existing population as the research sample. The results of this research showed that the role of women farmers in improving the family economy was high. Factors that influence the role of women farmers in improving the family economy are age and education.

“The Source of All My Joy and All My Stress”: Children and Childcare as Underappreciated Sources of Stress That Affect Farm Women

ABSTRACT Objective Women have always played a crucial role in agriculture through their work on the farm, caring for the family and the household, and off-farm employment. Yet, like their essential contributions to agriculture, their mental health and well-being have largely been invisible since much of the focus of the mental health in agriculture research has been on older, male farmers. This paper seeks to address this knowledge gap by focusing on the emotional consequences stemming from the expectations of juggling childcare responsibilities, farm work and managing the household whilst keeping children safe. Methods The data were collected via focus groups and photovoice activity with, respectively, 68 and 33 farm women from Ohio, Wisconsin, and Vermont. Results The content thematic analysis first indicates that the juggling of multiple roles along with limited support deeply impacted farm women’s wellbeing. Worries that the children could get hurt was a major source of stress. Stress and mental health issues connected to children do not lessen as they age but rather shift and become more complex. Conclusion This article highlights the implications of the lack of investment in farm women’s mental wellbeing and their lived realities of caring for children on the farm. Future research should address supply chain and affordability issues, particularly for rural childcare provision.

Frontline to farm: Sustainable farming training for military veterans and beginning farmers

New farmers are needed in agriculture in the U.S. to assure the sustainability of our food, including small- and mid-scale farmers. At the same time, military veterans need career opportunities as they transition back to civilian life. Many want to reconnect to community and the land. Training in sustainable agriculture and access to resources are needed for beginning farmers. Frontline to Farm is a new program at Appalachian State University in western N.C. to train military veterans in farming. We use a national/regional/community approach with on-line modules, as well as in-person training options. Specifically, 1) We have developed educational materials on-line with partners, the University of Arkansas and also the National Center for Appropriate Technology. These materials focus on sustainable farming, poultry, livestock, and pasture, as well as farm entrepreneurship and legal issues. 2) We also provide scholarships for veterans to attend sustainable agriculture conferences and training in the Southeast region. The University of Missouri offers training each summer on agroforestry, a regenerative agriculture practice that sequesters carbon while building soil fertility. 3) We provide intensive in-person trainings in our community in Southern Appalachia. We work closely with cooperative extension, USDA agencies, and local farmers for trainings. Several farmer veterans host customized internships at their farms to provide immersive experiences. 4) We provide our alumni with on-going consulting opportunities. We work with local farmer veteran mentors as consultants. Many farmers learn well in farmer-to-farmer settings. We leverage strengths in our community and work with local partners including Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture. We also work with local groups that support veterans, including Farmer Veteran Coalition and NC AgrAbility. Results in our first 3 years indicate that we have reached over 60,000 farmers electronically and over 220 in-person. Our project provides pathways to success (environmental, social, and economic) for new farmers. Sustainable agriculture protects environmental resources, increases equity for military veterans and beginning farmers, and builds resilience in local and regional food systems.

Masculinities in a feminist pedagogy: lessons for transformative gender and agriculture training.

Masculinities and femininities are closely interconnected with men and women farmers' everyday lives; hence critical reflection on these interconnections should be central in gender training in agriculture. While a focus on men and masculinities is crucial for sustainable transformation of deep-rooted gender norms and practices that limit the attainment of gender equality, there are insufficient empirically tested pedagogical models for this purpose. We share a case study, the Gender Responsive Researchers Equipped for Agricultural Transformation (GREAT) model, which incorporates masculinities in a feminist pedagogy. We use external monitoring, evaluation, and learning data for two case study courses that integrate gender in plant breeding, seed systems, and agronomy to demonstrate the efficacy of integrating the concept of masculinity and reflections on male farmers' expectations, behaviors, and practices within a feminist approach to gender training. We conclude that feminist pedagogical practices offer insights into how gender training can integrate a masculinities perspective to move beyond divisive and narrow gender polarities towards addressing masculine norms that often hinder the attainment of gender transformation.

Analysing Knowledge Gain in Women Farmers: Insights from Tuber Crop Cultivation Training

Aims: This study aimed to assess the knowledge gain of women farmers participating in a training program on tuber crop cultivation in Thrissur district, Kerala. The training focused on improving their understanding of key agricultural practices related to crops such as cassava, elephant foot yam, coleus, and sweet potatoes. Study Design: Ex post facto design. Place and Duration of Study: The training was organized and conducted by the Center for Gender Studies in Agriculture and Farm Entrepreneurship Development, College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara, Thrissur, Kerala on March 2024. Methodology: A total of 50 women farmers were randomly selected from various panchayats in the Thrissur district to attend the training. A pre- and post-training evaluation was conducted using a structured questionnaire comprising 15 questions, covering topics such as variety selection, soil fertility management, pest and disease control, and post-harvest value addition, and so on. Using grapesAgri1 in R Studio 4.3.1 software, the data were analysed using statistical methods like frequency, percentage, t-test and coefficient of correlation. Results: Pre- and post-training knowledge scores were calculated and analysed using simple percentage formulas to assess knowledge gain. The study revealed a significant improvement in participants' knowledge post-training. The overall average pre-training knowledge score was 9.67 out of 50 (19.34%), while the average post-training score increased to 41.53 out of 50 (83.06%). T-test was also employed to compare the mean of pre-test and post-test evaluation. The percentage of knowledge gain in the pre-training and post-training evaluation were correlated with the independent variables such as age, education, family size, category and information source utilization. The results of correlation revealed that the independent variable such as age (X1), Education (X2), Category (X3) and farm size (X4) are negatively correlated and information source (X5) was positively correlated with the dependent variable. Conclusion: The training program effectively enhanced the knowledge of women farmers in key aspects of tuber crop cultivation, contributing to improved agricultural practices and the potential for increased productivity.

The Role of Women in Agricultural Activities in Anjir Serapat Muara 1 Village

Agricultural activities are synonymous with the physical strength of men compared to women. However, over time, women also have a role in agricultural activities. Therefore, it is necessary to learn about gender studies. Learning about gender can be found in the role of women in agricultural activities. The role of women in agricultural activities in Anjir Serapat Muara 1 Village can be used as an example of gender equality. This research aims to describe the role of women farmers in agricultural activities in Anjir Serapat Muara 1 Village. The method applied by the author in this research is a qualitative approach with the use of descriptive methods. The research location is Anjir Serapat Muara 1 Village, Barito Kuala Regency, South Kalimantan Province with the subject of Anjir Serapat Muara 1 Village women. The research instrument here is the researcher himself with the use of observation data collection techniques about the role of women in agriculture, interviews, and documentation used in the form of village profile data archives and moments during research related to the role of women in agricultural activities. The results of this study state that the role of women in agricultural activities in Anjir Serapat Muara 1 Village is due to hereditary factors, namely because being a farmer in this village is used as the main livelihood because the village area is suitable for agriculture and business factors to improve the family economy, namely with the aim of helping to ease the burden on husbands or female farmers who act as heads of families caused by husbands who have died or have divorced.

Do diverse crops or diverse market purchases matter more for women's diet quality in farm households of Mali?

Finding pathways to improve nutrition is vital to Mali. We apply a simultaneous equation model to test whether the diversity of crops grown on farms or local market purchases has a greater effect on the diet quality of 5930 farm women in Mali. Both on-farm crop diversity and the diversity of food sources purchased in local markets have strong positive associations with women's diet quality, but crop diversity effects are greater. A larger area share devoted to cereals reduces diet quality. Results are robust to the choice of diversity indicator. Market-based incentives at a regional and local scale could enhance on-farm crop diversity and stimulate both the production and trade of diverse food products in local markets: a win-win scenario.

Farm Women and Nutrition Gardens: Constraints and Suggestions

Farm Women and Nutrition Gardens: Constraints and Suggestions

Peran Kelompok Wanita Tani dalam Meningkatkan Ekonomi Keluarga di Kelurahan Tambakrejo Kecamatan Simokerto Kota Surabaya

The assistance of the Women's Farming Group (KWT) in Tambakrejo Village, Simokerto District, Surabaya City aims to utilize the potential of vegetable crops such as mustard greens, kale, Brazilian spinach, pakchoy and lettuce so that they have economic value. Through the Forum Group Discussion (FGD), innovations were proposed in processing harvested produce into vegetable juice, which not only increases economic value but also family health. The main challenge faced is the low fluctuation in prices of fresh vegetables, so innovation in processing is needed. This assistance is expected to increase the capacity of KWT members, efficient resource management, and support from the government and non-governmental organizations. Women's involvement in KWT has the opportunity to increase their economic and social role, creating independence and solidarity among members. Further development steps include product diversification, ongoing training, provision of adequate infrastructure, and environmentally friendly waste management. With innovation and collaborative support, this program is expected to be able to empower women, improve family welfare, and strengthen the local economy in a sustainable manner, providing a positive impact on society.

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.