Women and the rationalisation of smallholder agriculture

Agricultural policies, resource allocations and service provisions which fail to recognise the extent of women's participation in farming are irrational, reducing the efficiency and effectiveness of agricultural sector investments. Special strategic intervention is required to re-orient ministries of agriculture towards serving women farmers. Data-based policy seminars for senior officials and administrators are one example of actions which help to bring about changes in attitude and practice. The paper concludes with examples of what is being achieved through such interventions, under the headings of: revision of routine agricultural data collection and analysis, agricultural extension, T & V, agricultural research, and training and development of staff commitment.