The Impact of Intra-Household Gender Relations in Accessing Agricultural Extension Services for Improved Livelihoods: The Case of NAADS Beneficiary Sub-Counties in Kabale District

Abstract

This study explored the influence of intra-household gender relations in access to Agricultural Extension Services (AESs) for improved livelihoods as a pathway to long term poverty reduction. The study covered the four NAADS pioneer beneficiary Sub counties of Bubare, Bukiinda, Ikumba and Maziba in Kabale district. It analysed gender based relational differences prevailing between men and women in a household (HH) in the creation and recreation of secure livelihoods through AESs. A mixed method approach with cross sectional and exploratory research designs was used to collect data through documentary review, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), HH surveys, Key Informant (KI) interviews and observation checklist. The study sample comprised of 181 farmers’ HHs and 14 KIs.

The study results revealed that intra-HH gender relations among the Bakiga people of Kabale district are situated within a patriarchal setting which exhibit men’s dominance over women’s decisions in major spheres of life which affects equal access to AESs. Although AESs have been  operational in the district for over a decade, their existence has not transformed farmers’ livelihoods in  which is majorly attributed to unequal gender relations with regard to gender roles and division of labour, resource distribution, ownership and control as well as decision making which are reinforced by the Bakiga’s patriarchal system. Extension system is “gender blind” and NAADS agents/officials pay little attention to the gender relations which are skewed in favour of men, yet women are the key actors in agriculture production and reproduction. Micro, meso and macro level extension systems and structures were also anchored onto the patriarchal power setting thus obscure how women and men access production resources in their HHs in pursuit of livelihood streams. Thus, there is need for equitable technical advice to principle HHs members and examination of the composition of AESs structure as well as deconstructing HH power and control structure in pursuit of improved livelihood. This will empower women who are the linchpin of HH production and reproduction hence creating foundational pathways for improved livelihood.