The Role of Women in Agriculture: A Case Study of Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State

Abstract

Primary data were collected from 60 women farmers in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State so as to study the role women play in food production in the study area. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results of the analysis indicated that 90% of the women are responsible for meeting the daily needs of their families for food, water, fuel wood, health care and other essentials. They are also involved in agricultural activities such as land preparation, planting, transplanting, weeding, fertilizer application, harvesting, processing, transporting, storing, grading and marketing of farm produce, in addition to raising domestic animals such as sheep, goats and poultry. The major constraints faced by the women included inadequate extension services, improved inputs and credit facilities. It was recommended that policies towards encouraging women farmers should be made and sustained as the potentials of women will be fully utilized by involving them in the decision-making process, providing necessary incentives and improved farming technologies.