A gender-inclusive approach to enhancing food security through the circular economy in the Eastern Cape, South Africa

Abstract

The circular economy is recognized as a way to ensure sustainable economic and environmental systems. One aspect is reducing waste by reusing it in a manufacturing or processing plant. In agriculture, circular agriculture is the optimum combination of organic inputs and minimal external inputs, thus decreasing negative emissions and waste. However, the climate crisis, gender inequalities and food security place pressure on the agricultural sector. This study investigated the role of women in the circular economy and food security. A mixed research approach through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews was used. Data was collected to obtain data from four rural municipalities: Mbizana, Ntanbunkula, Inuza Hill and Port St Johns. All are in the Eastern Cape. Results reveal that structural factors and financial, technological and cultural barriers hinder women from enhancing food security using circular agriculture. For example, of the 56.6% privately owned land in the municipalities, men own 65%, despite women being 66.7% of the rural population. Low rates of land ownership reduce access to credit, as well as make access to land precarious. Furthermore, agricultural programs fail to integrate a gender perspective. Thus, a gender-responsive approach and creating an enabling environment is necessary to enhance food security.