| dc.description |
Gender inequality exists in many agricultural value chains. This study analyzed gender participation along the Sunflower Value Chain (SVC). A crosssectional research design was adopted and the combination of systematic and random sampling techniques was used to select 132 respondents. The questionnaire and checklist for key informants were the main methods for data collection. Descriptive statistical analysis was used to compute the characteristics and distribution of respondents, gendered participation, processing and marketing of the sunflower products, and decisions making on income use. Conventional mapping was used to map SVC based on flow of products along the chain, and content analysis was used to analyze qualitative data collected from key informant’s interviews. The study found that gender inequalities exist in the SVC in Mvomero District. The differences are attributable to differences in power relation with regard to access to and control of resources particularly those related to finances, decision making on income use and processing. The most lucrative nodes such as processing and marketing are dominated by men while women dominate less paying activities such as bird scaring, winnowing, grading and drying seeds. Thus, the study recommends to the government, non -governmental organizations and gender activists to continue advocate for the mainstreaming of gender issues along the SVC to ensure more women participation and beneft. The intervention should also ensure gender equity and equality among the actors in the chain so that women and men benefit equally or equitably due to their engagement in the SVC. |
|