The Contribution of Women to Household Food Security in the Kassena -Nankana East District in the Upper East Region of Ghana

Abstract

The study examines the contribution of women in food production and its impact on food security in the Kassena Nankana district of the upper east region of Ghana.  The specific objectives are: to examine the socio-economic characteristics of women farmers in the area, the challenges they face in food production

The study utilizes both primary and secondary data. Primary data were obtained through questionnaire administration and direct observation in the study area. 160 questionnaires were administered purposively to 160 women who are into food production and live stock production while the secondary sources were obtained from review of related literature on the subject matter. Data collected were analysed through descriptive statistics. Results revealed that majority of the women are into food production in the area than their male counterparts, it also revealed that women are discriminated when it comes to decision making with regards to land acquisitions and credit facilities. The study also revealed that about 97% of the women in the study are into food crop farming which they use to feed their housed hold.

Keywords: women, food security, household.