An assessment of male and female contribution to household livelihood through crop production in Hoima City

Abstract

This dissertation was prepared following a study on; assessment of the male and female roles in crop production in enhancing household livelihood. In specific terms, the study aimed at creating a broad understanding on; the differences in male and female roles in crop production, how the male and female crop production roles complement each other in enhancing household livelihood and above all examining the challenges and solution women and men face in crop production in enhancing household livelihood. To achieve this, mixed methods approach was used. The Descriptive survey design was utilized. Household heads or representatives constituted the target population. The study employed probability techniques to obtain the samples for study. Systematic random sampling was a useful blend of randomization and categorization, which enabled both quantitative and qualitative process of research to be undertaken. Questionnaires, interviews and documentation analysis were used as research instruments. Data was analysed using descriptive statistical techniques. Data was presented by use of frequency tables, charts and graphs. This was done using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) computer program. There was no a clear dissect between the male and female roles. Reflecting on the different roles played by male and female, the study reveals that the female mainly contributes labour while on the other hand the study places the male majorly in funding crop production activities and provision of farm inputs like seeds. The study shows satisfaction of farmers on the way male and females complemented each other in their roles in crop production. In view of men and women complementing each other in crop production, the study shows satisfaction on the way male and females complemented each other in their roles in crop production in enhancing household livelihood. The study therefore established that farmers complementing each other in their role led to increased crop yields and this is also key in enhancing house hold livelihood. Further, the study reveals a range of challenges faced by both male and female farmers in crop production. Majorly, both male and female faces challenges of pests and diseases, unfavourable climatic changes, limited land and funds to facilitate farm activities as well as lack of proper farm inputs like fertilizer, seeds among others which in the end affect their yield. On the other hand, the study was able to establish that truly the challenges both male and female farmers in crop production are easy to address and can be solved. The study therefore mainly placed much of the trust in extending extension services to farmers and organizing them into groups for easy coordination and support among others. The study pointed at enhancement of women and youth capacities in the adoption and use of new and appropriate agricultural techniques in addition to providing timely farm inputs and extension services.