Climate Change and Gender Gaps in Africa’s Agricultural Sector

Abstract

AbstractAddressing gender gaps in Africa’s agricultural sector is crucial for promoting equal opportunities and mitigating the impact of climate change. This chapter examines the specific ways in which climate change exacerbates existing gender disparities in agriculture in Africa. One significant factor is the gender gap in access to key farm resources and inputs such as farmland, labour, information, fertilisers, seedlings, and extension services. This gap contributes to the unequal distribution of land rights between men and women in Africa. Additionally, gendered differences in access to resources and control over decision-making affect men and women’s ability to adapt to the impacts of climate change. To promote effective adaptation approaches, this chapter suggests leveraging women’s traditional strengths and increasing their participation in crisis prevention and response initiatives. To achieve this, it is crucial to prioritise women’s land ownership, participation, and reconciliation initiatives. This chapter highlights the need for policy interventions that address gender inequalities and foster equal opportunities for men and women farmers in Africa’s agricultural sector.