International Development Enterprises (IDE), in collaboration with Wageningen University and Research Centre and the University of Zambia, will assess the gender differentiated impact of low cost drip irrigation technologies on small scale farmers in Zambia. More than 50% of these farmers are women.

As in many countries, Zambia is a male-dominated society and women can be marginalized in accessing information, technologies and natural resources. Men and women living in the same household have different roles, responsibilities, and access to resources, as well as separate incomes and expenditures. The literacy and knowledge levels also vary and lead to a differentiation in the capacity of men and women to adopt new technologies and agronomic practices.

The Research

Household case studies will be developed and employed on basis of MSc research on the impact of the introduction of small-scale irrigation technology on gender relations that was conducted in 2010. Two in depth household cases will be investigated using an exploratory questionnaire, followed by in-depth interviews. Focus group discussions (with men and women apart) on the benefits and burdens after technology adoption will be held. Through intensive contact with these farmers, the most relevant issues for the target group (female farmers) will be identified; i.e. the obstacles and problems that they face on a day to day basis.

Financial support

The project can to some extent contribute to the students’ research and travel costs.

Contact Els Hegger for more information.