Unraveling Challenges, Triumph, Gender Disparities, Government Failures In Agriculture In the FCT
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
Nigerian women make up a significant portion of the country’s farmers and these women play very important roles in agriculture, food supply, cash crops, and livestock production for the country but in the heart of Nigeria’s agricultural landscape lie pervasive issues that demand urgent attention – the intersection of unpaid care work, the exclusion of women in agriculture, systemic rot, challenges in the agricultural value chain, and unfulfilled promises by the government. This narrative will unfold the entwining unpaid care responsibilities, the exclusion of women, systemic issues in the agricultural value chain, and unmet government commitments for female farmers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)
Small-scale female farmers make up approximately 37% of the workforce and contribute to the gross domestic product of Africa’s largest economy. It is no longer news that women farmers produce a lot of food for home consumption and are the driving force behind food processing, trade, and conservation.
Despite their significant contribution to agriculture, women have limited access to land, credit facilities, agricultural equipment, training, consultancy, agricultural services, and technology.
In fact, few people in Nigeria have ownership rights to the land they farm, hence many agricultural workers work for free and have little say in how money is earned, as fewer men are involved in production but still control the whole decision-making and management processes.
With a rapidly growing population of over 200 million, hunger, and malnutrition, local production of essential commodities such as rice is vital for Nigeria to achieve food security and lift millions out of poverty, but women are always the victims because when children are hungry, they are the ones who find a means of removing the hunger pangs
Women in agriculture and access to land
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) recognizes that building future food security in Nigeria begins by first empowering women to own and manage land to produce and they are solving this by partnering with Feed the Future and the Nigerian Business Center, through which thousands of women farmers are gaining tools, knowledge and resources to improve their incomes and the lives of their families and communities.
It is believed that if women had the same access to money, land, technology, and education as men, they could contribute to the elimination of poverty and hunger in the country.
Unpaid Care and its Toll on Women in Agriculture:
Even though women play a pivotal role in agriculture, contributing significantly to food production and sustenance, the burden of unpaid care work often falls disproportionately on their shoulders. From tending to family needs to managing household chores, women’s time and energy are stretched thin, hindering their full participation in agricultural or political activities. The invisibility of this unpaid labor perpetuates gender disparities and stifles the potential economic contributions of women in the sector. Addressing this disparity requires acknowledging and redistributing these caregiving responsibilities.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), women make up 70-80% of agricultural workers in Nigeria, but they face special challenges such as limited access to credit, land and education.
Despite these challenges, Nigerian women farmers have the potential to make a major impact on the country’s food security and economy. Most of them are businesswomen who are the source of income for their families, and their work contributes to food.
Their contribution to agriculture is important because they provide food to families and communities and support the local economy.
They also play an important role in rural development as they are mostly involved in activities such as educating children and building schools. Women farmers in States like Sokoto, Zamfara and Kano face special challenges owing to the level of insecurity in those areas so, they often have to deal with robbery, theft, rape and other crimes; so, have turned to collective farming as a way to increase their safety and reduce the risk of being targeted by criminals.
Why exclude women?
In recent years, there have been concerns regarding the exclusion of women in agriculture in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and many factors contribute to this gender disparity which has far-reaching impact on the agricultural sector.
Factors that contribute to the exclusion Include:
Limited Access to Land: Women in the FCT face challenges in accessing agricultural land, often due to traditional norms and discriminatory practices that favor male landownership.
Lack of Financial Support: Women encounter difficulties in securing financial resources for agricultural activities, as they may face gender-based obstacles when seeking loans or grants.
Educational Barriers: Limited access to education for women in rural areas of the FCT often hinder their ability to adopt modern agricultural practices and technologies.
Cultural Stereotypes: There are deep-rooted cultural beliefs that view agriculture as a male-dominated domain, discouraging women from active participation.
What impacts does exclusion have on agriculture?
Reduced Productivity: The exclusion of women from agriculture results in untapped potential, leading to reduced overall productivity in the sector.
Economic Implications: Gender inequality in agriculture contributes to economic disparities, as women are often denied the opportunity to contribute substantially to the agricultural value chain thereby, leaving the economically disadvantaged.
Food Security Concerns: Excluding women from agricultural activities poses a threat to food security in the FCT, as their valuable contributions are underutilized.
Way forward:
Land Reforms: Implementing land reforms that promote gender equality in land ownership can provide women with better access to agricultural land.
Financial Inclusion: Creating targeted financial support programs for women in agriculture can enhance their ability to invest in farming activities.
Education Initiatives: Implementing educational programs that specifically target women in rural areas can empower them with the knowledge and skills needed for modern agricultural practices.
Community Engagement: Promoting community awareness campaigns to challenge cultural stereotypes and encourage the active participation of women in agriculture.
Addressing the exclusion of women in agriculture in the FCT is crucial for sustainable development and the overall growth of the agricultural sector. By implementing targeted reforms and initiatives, the region can unlock the full potential of its female population, fostering a more inclusive and productive agricultural landscape.
The Rot?
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is facing a growing crisis in its agricultural sector, this is marked by a series of challenges that are adversely affecting the productivity and sustainability of farming activities. What are the root causes of these issues and their implications for the FCT’s agricultural landscape?
Land Degradation and Soil Erosion:
The FCT has witnessed increased instances of land degradation and soil erosion, primarily due to improper land use, deforestation, and inadequate soil conservation measures. This has led to decreased arable land, negatively impacting crop yields and overall agricultural productivity.
Water Scarcity and Irrigation Challenges:
Farmers in the FCT face significant water scarcity, exacerbated by irregular rainfall patterns and inadequate irrigation infrastructure as well as soil texture which hampers crop growth and puts additional pressure on farmers who rely on rain-fed agriculture.
Obsolete Farming Practices:
Many farmers in the FCT still use traditional and outdated farming methods, lacking access to modern agricultural technologies and practices. This not only limits productivity but also contributes to environmental degradation.
Lack of Agricultural Extension Services:
The absence of effective agricultural extension services in the FCT has been an impediment to the dissemination of crucial information, improved farming techniques, and access to support systems. As such, farmers are often unaware of best practices and technological advancements.
Inadequate Market Access:
Farmers struggle with limited access to markets, resulting in low returns on their agricultural produce. The lack of proper infrastructure for transportation and storage further compounds these challenges, discouraging farmers from expanding their operations.
Inadequate Government Support:
The government’s support for the agricultural sector in the FCT appears to be insufficient probably for the lack of a governor. Farmers’ especially female farmers tell harrowing stories of what they pass through in the quest for a loan. Nkechi Abas of Oak Farms in Jikwoyi, in Abuja Municipal Area Council, of reported difficulties in accessing loans, subsidies, and other forms of assistance that could enhance her capacity and resilience in the face of challenges.
She said oftentimes some men will want to take advantage of the women who think such loans and grants are favours from the men and usually fall prey to their antics.
Ambassador Ikenna Offor, of the Farmers’ Support Initiative, FSI, said, the pain of exclusion of women in agriculture is that Nations are bound to move backward when women are not deeply involved in the development of the agric. sector.
According to him, if women are not greatly involved, it’ll remain a bit harder to use the farming sector in addressing most of the socio-economic and security challenges confronting Africa at the moment.
No wonder the agricultural sector in the Federal Capital Territory is still grappling with a multifaceted crisis that requires urgent attention and comprehensive intervention. Addressing these issues will not only bolster food security but also contribute to the economic development of the region.
It is therefore, imperative for relevant stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and the farming community, to collaborate in implementing sustainable solutions that address the root causes outlined in this report.
Government’s Unfulfilled Promises
Government has over the years, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) witnessed a series of promises from the government aimed at fostering agricultural development but these promises have often been unfulfilled and the consequences of the myriad of unmet commitments and promises also have an impact on the agricultural landscape in the FCT.
Some of these consequences include but are not limited to: delayed implementation of Agricultural Initiatives:
Despite the government’s announcements of various agricultural initiatives, the implementation has been marred by delays. Farmers report a significant gap between the time promises are made and when actual support reaches them, leading to missed opportunities and prolonged challenges.
There is also the case of Incomplete Infrastructure Projects:
Several agricultural infrastructure projects promised by the government, such as irrigation systems, storage facilities, and rural roads, remain incomplete or are not initiated. The Abuja Karashi Road is a case in study and this has hindered the efficiency of agricultural activities and constrained the growth of the sector.
Unfulfilled Financial Support:
Promised financial support, including subsidies and loans, has not been consistently provided to farmers in the FCT. Many farmers express frustration over the lack of access to funds such as the Anchor Borrower’s Program, ABP, where funds were pledged to facilitate the expansion and modernization of their agricultural ventures but the big companies took over and the government overlooked them.
Neglect of Smallholder Farmers:
This is another problem as Government assurances to uplift smallholder farmers have not translated into tangible benefits for this crucial demographic. The promised assistance, training programs, and technology transfer have all fallen short, leaving smallholder farmers without the necessary tools to improve their practices.
Inadequate Research and Development Funding:
Despite commitments to invest in agricultural research and development, the government’s funding in this area has been insufficient. This has limited the introduction of innovative technologies and practices, hindering the sector’s overall progress.
Lack of Transparent Communication:
Mrs. Abas, expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of transparent communication from the government regarding the status of promised initiatives. This gap in communication she said has created uncertainty and eroded trust among the agricultural community.
The unfulfilled promises of the government in agricultural development have contributed to a sense of disillusionment and stagnation in the Federal Capital Territory. To revitalize the agricultural sector, it is imperative for the government to fulfill its commitments promptly, transparently communicate progress, and prioritize the needs of smallholder farmers for it is only through a concerted effort to address these shortcomings that the FCT can hope to realize its agricultural potential and meet the growing demands for food security and economic prosperity.
Exclusion of women in Agriculture:
The exclusion of women in agriculture is a multifaceted problem rooted in cultural norms, inadequate access to resources, and limited educational opportunities. While women actively engage in various aspects of farming, their voices are often marginalized in decision-making processes as these cultural norms, resource disparities, and limited educational opportunities contribute to a large extent the exclusion of women in agriculture despite their active role in various facets of farming. Another limitation is the lack of access to education and training. Many women farmers have little or no education, making it difficult for them to learn about best agricultural practices. They also have limited access to ongoing services and other supports. However, despite these restrictions, they continue to contribute to the country’s agriculture. Addressing this exclusion requires dismantling systemic barriers, fostering gender-inclusive policies, and promoting initiatives that empower women in agriculture.
According to a report by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) only 2% of all loans in agriculture goes to women, thereby, making it difficult for them to get the capital they need to grow their businesses.
Agricultural Value Chain Challenges:
The agricultural value chain is riddled with complexities, from production to distribution. In the FCT, farmers face challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, lack of access to markets, and limited financial support. These hurdles hinder the growth of the agricultural sector and exacerbate the difficulties faced by women farmers and impede the sector’s growth and disproportionately affect women farmers. A comprehensive approach that would address these issues is crucial for revitalizing the agricultural value chain and promote sustainable development through provision of infrastructure, access to market, and financial support, to expedite revitalizing the agricultural value chain in the FCT.
According to Dr. Stella Iwuagu of SDFarms Orozo, theirs is to teach the community women how to cultivate their own food sustainably and make them become agriprenuers.
She said it is important to promote gender equality in agricultural value chains to reduce poverty and create food security in the region.
With little assistance from the government, women farmers can improve their incomes, manage crop sales, and set an example for other women to follow.
Women farmers play an important role in Nigeria’s agriculture, but their impact is often overlooked.
They also rely on local support networks to assist in times of need. “It’s truly inspiring to see how these women are resilient in supporting the food sector”.
Government Failures and unfulfilled promises
Despite numerous promises, the Nigerian government’s commitment to addressing these challenges in the FCT’s agricultural sector has often fallen short. Insufficient funding, ineffective policies, and a lack of implementation transparency have hindered progress. The unfulfilled promises contribute to a cycle of disillusionment among farmers and exacerbate the existing problems in the agricultural landscape.
To build a resilient and inclusive agricultural sector in the FCT and beyond, a concerted effort is required. Tackling unpaid care burdens, dismantling barriers to women’s participation, addressing challenges in the agric. value chain, and holding the government accountable for its promises are crucial steps toward a more equitable and prosperous future for Nigeria’s agriculture. It is time to recognize the interconnectedness of these issues and work collaboratively to bring about lasting change.
A study by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) found that female farmers in Nigeria have lower productivity than male farmers, but greater crop diversity and food security. The research also found that female farmers were more likely to adopt permaculture practices such as mixed cropping and soil conservation but the lack of land will make it difficult for them to adopt permaculture practices because they will not have the resources to invest in their land.
The study by (IFPRI) found that even though female farmers in Nigeria have higher yields, diversity, and food security, they earn lower profits than male farmers.
A former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Audu Ogbe, said 70% of the 95% of smallholder farmers who feed the country are women.
Women Farmers Development Network (WOFAN) is a Nigerian non-profit organization dedicated to empowering smallholder farmers, especially women and youth.
The organization provides information and donations to many women in different parts of Nigeria, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, to promote sustainable development in agriculture.
Hajia Rasidatu Sani, is a smallholder farmer in Orozo and she says the WOFAN device offers farmers a better lifestyle as they can now cover a larger agricultural area than before.
Attahiru Musa, a resident of Gao Village in Abaji District Council, said they can now save time while getting more results in the FCT.
In spite of this feat by WOFAN, the government must as a matter of urgency rise to deliberately support female farmers in the FCT as the population continues to grow rising from 3,464,000 in 2021 to 3,652,000 in 2022 and 3,840,000 in 2023 at an average rate of 5% increase each year.
This investigation is for the GENDER ACCOUNTABILITY AND INCLUSIVITY IN NIGERIA project for Gender Strategy Advancement International (GSAI) supported by the OPEN SOCIETY INITIATIVE FOR WEST AFRICA.