Assessment of Women’s Participation in Fish Processing in Ekiti State, Nigeria

Abstract

This research examined the involvement of women in various stages of fish processing in Ekiti State, Nigeria. A sampling method was used to select 90 women fish processors, and data was collected through structured interviews. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, such as frequencies, percentages, and means, along with charts. Additionally, probit regression analysis was conducted to identify socio-economic factors influencing women's participation in fish processing. The findings revealed that, on average, women involved in fish processing were 38.5 years old, with 57% being married and 28.4% being single. A majority (61.7%) had received formal education, and nearly all (91%) were members of cooperative societies. The study found that women were primarily engaged in scaling, gutting, and sticking (87%), with 60% using the hot smoking method. Most processing equipment was locally fabricated, with 15% using drum ovens, 25% using metal sheets, 45% using clay ovens, and 40% using kilns. The majority (85%) used firewood as a fuel source, and 89% packaged their fish in baskets and paper. The probit regression analysis indicated that age, education, access to credit, and access to markets were positively and significantly related to women's participation in fish processing. Marital status and experience in fish processing were also positively related but not significantly. The study concluded that women utilized various methods, equipment, and energy sources in fish processing. Based on the findings, recommendations were made, including assisting women in forming cooperative societies to enhance their business management skills, prioritizing women in accessing credit and loans, and stabilizing fish product prices to mitigate business risks among women processors.