Research: Understanding Gender-Specific Constraints to Agricultural Technology in Cassava Farming in Kenya
This is an ongoing partnership between FocusWise SHG and the University of California, Berkeley on Understanding Gender-Specific Constraints to Agricultural Technology in Cassava Farming in Kenya.
Study Context
In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), female farmers typically experience lower agricultural productivity compared to their male counterparts. Several key factors contribute to this gender disparity in the adoption of new agricultural technologies, which in turn hinders women’s agricultural productivity. These factors include:
1. Limited Access to Innovative Technologies: Women often face barriers that restrict their access to new and advanced agricultural technologies. This lack of access prevents them from leveraging modern tools and methods to enhance their farming practices.
2. Information Inequality: Another significant challenge is the gender-based information gap. Women frequently encounter difficulties in accessing critical agricultural information, which is vital for optimizing their farming techniques and improving yields.
3. Cultural Norms and Gender Biases: Deep-rooted cultural norms and gender biases can further exacerbate the disparity in technology adoption. These societal norms may hinder female farmers from seeking guidance or data from male-dominated agricultural extension services.
Recognizing the crucial role that agricultural technology plays in boosting crop yields, especially in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa and across the developing world, it is imperative to investigate and address the reasons behind the differential adoption rates of agricultural technologies between women and men. Understanding these dynamics is essential for promoting gender equity in agriculture and ensuring that female farmers can fully harness the benefits of modern farming practices.
Check the results and lessons from this study here: The Center for Effective Global Action (CEGA).
