Gender-based Constraints and Opportunities in Oil Palm Value Chain Development: A Study of Smallholder Farmers in Southeast Nigeria

Abstract

The study looks into the constraints and opportunities related to gender in the oil palm business of smallholder farmers in Anambra and Enugu States. The cultivation of oil palm means a lot to Nigeria’s agriculture, but women often face difficulties when it comes to productivity and getting resources. A mix of surveys and group discussions allowed for the collection of data from 108 respondents coming from 3 LGAs of each state, 2 selected communities in each LGA and 18 smallholder farmers (9 male and 9 female). From the research, it is clear that men are mostly in charge of land clearing, harvesting and management of finances, whereas women start the planting, care for them and take them to market. Because it is harder for women to get land, credit and technology, they tend to be less efficient in using resources than men. The study observed that women farmers are limited in several ways, including not having enough money and restrictions caused by cultural beliefs that stop them from participating. Even with such problems, steps can be taken to promote gender equity by means of gender-sensitive workshops and the chance to join cooperative groups. Evidence from the research points out that beneficial policies for all farmers contribute to making the oil palm sector more sustainable. If gender differences are tackled, stakeholders can promote productivity, fairness and sustainability in Southeast Nigeria’s agriculture.