Gender, Agroforestry and Food Security in Africa

Citation:

Kiptot, Evelyne, Steven Franzel, and Ann Degrande. 2014. “Gender, Agroforestry and Food Security in Africa.” Current Opinion in Environmental Sustainability 6: 104-9.

Authors: Evelyne Kiptot, Steven Franzel, Ann Degrande

Abstract:

This paper reviews agroforestry’s contribution to food security from a gender perspective. Emphasis is placed on women’s contribution relative to men and the challenges they face. Agroforestry practices examined include fodder shrubs, ‘fertilizer trees’ and indigenous fruit trees. In examining the practices, we highlight women’s and men’s involvement in management, utilization and marketing of agroforestry products. The review shows that agroforestry makes a substantial contribution to food security. Furthermore, women are as actively involved as men; however, their level of participation and benefits are constrained by cultural norms and lack of resources. For women to benefit fully from agroforestry and hence contribute to food security, various policies, technological and institutional interventions are recommended.

Topics: Gender, Gendered Power Relations, Livelihoods, Security, Food Security Regions: Africa

Year: 2014