Strategies for Improving Women Participation in Agriculture in Abia State

1Michael Onwumere, 2Asogwa Vincent C., 3 Chidiebere Duru K.

Authors

1Michael Onwumere, 2Asogwa Vincent C., 3 Chidiebere Duru K. 1&3Department of Vocational and Technical Education, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike Ikwo, Ebonyi State, Nigeria, 3Department of Agricultural and Home Science Education Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria. Author

Abstract

This study was to evolve strategies that could be put in place for improving women participation in agriculture in Abia state. Specifically, the study determined strategies which each of the following should put in place for improving women’s participation in agriculture in Abia state; agricultural based non-governmental organization (NGOs) and relevant government bodies. It was survey. Population was made up of Agricultural Extension workers, registered Agric-based non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and registered rural women farmers in the area of the study. Questionnaire was used for data collection. Mean and standard deviation were used for data analysis. Findings include 15 NGOs strategies. These included among others; provide credit and financial facilities for women in agriculture (WIA) ( = 3.44), strengthen technical and entrepreneurial skills of WIA ( = 3.45), invite successful women farmers to give career-talks and serve as role models to rural women ( = 3.46) and assist rural women to attend agricultural shows, field trips or work-visit ( = 3.40). Other findings are 21 government strategies. These include; provide adequate social amenities to rural women farmers such as good roads ( = 3.39), create agricultural policies that will favour WIA ( = 3.07), enhance women knowledge of basic farming activities( = 3.39), establish new agricultural training centers and strengthening existing ones ( = 3.46), help women acquire agricultural land ( = 3.27) and others. It was recommended, among others, that the government should promote a more agricultural financial supportive for the women.