Gender Roles of Farmers in the Production of African Black Beans (Vigna unguiculata) In Anambra and Enugu States Nigeria

Abstract

The study assessed gender roles in the production of African black beans (akidi) in Southeast Nigeria. Specifically, it addressed the socio-economic characteristics of the farmers, agronomic practices, gender roles, constraints, and strategies for improving the production of African black beans (ABB). A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 192 ABB farmers for the study. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview schedule. Data were analysed using percentage and mean statistics. Results revealed that the average age of female and male respondents was about 44 and 41 years, respectively. Men, women and youths played complementary roles in various operations in ABB production. Men (37.5%, 32.8%, 32.8% and 13.5%) and youths (32.8%, 33.9%, 34.9% and 10.9%) dominated heavy labour operations like land clearing, ploughing, harrowing and fertilizer application, respectively, while women (60.4%, 53.1%, 59.9%, 63% and 61.5%) dominated other operations like planting, harvesting, processing, storage and marketing respectively. Therefore, all genders are involved in ABB production in the area. Efforts should be made to target different genders in ABB production. This can be done through the dissemination of improved technologies in the various production operations. This will ensure that roles are not neglected, thereby enhancing the production of African black beans.