Gendered Agricultural Production in Hidabu Abote Woreda, North Shoa, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia

Abstract

This study aims to assess Gendered Agricultural Production in Hidabu Abote Woreda, Ethiopia. The study used questionnaire, Focus Group discussion, and key informants to gather relevant information. The data collected from the respondents using questionnaires were organized, tallied, tabulated and the analysis was made using tables to compare, contrast and explain gendered agricultural condition of the households through percentage, mean and frequency count. The information obtained  by open and close ended questions, from key informants, and Focus Group discussion were considered in the analysis and interpretation part of this study. The result shows both men and women participated in agricultural activities but women worked more days in the field than men. Community socialized in such a way that girls are held inferior to boys. These socially induced differences between males and females result in discriminatory rewards, statuses, opportunities and roles in crop production. In the process of upbringing, boys are expected to learn and become self-reliant, major bread winners, and responsible in different activities While girls are brought up to conform, be obedient and dependent, and specialize in indoor activities like cooking, washing clothes, fetching water, and caring for children. Intervention should target at empowering women in terms of education/capacity building to reduce gender inequality in agricultural activities.

Keywords: Gender, Agriculture, production, indoor activities, Ethiopia