In the heart of Nigeria, a silent struggle unfolds, one that’s as old as the fields that stretch across the landscape. Rural women, the backbone of agriculture, often find themselves at the mercy of poverty, their incomes barely enough to sustain their families. But a new study, published in the Journal of Agribusiness and Rural Development, sheds light on the socioeconomic determinants of income among these women, offering a roadmap for change.
Ridwan Mukaila, a researcher from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, led the study, which delved into the lives of 120 rural women in Enugu State. The findings paint a stark picture: these women earn an average annual income of just USD 626.25, a figure that barely scratches the surface of the poverty line. “The income level is alarmingly low,” Mukaila states, “and it’s a significant barrier to their well-being and food security.”
The study reveals that agriculture, practiced on a small scale, is the primary source of income for these women, accounting for 78.8% of their annual earnings. However, the path to prosperity is not paved with crops alone. Mukaila’s research identifies several socioeconomic factors that can boost their incomes. “Cooperative membership, access to credit facilities, and education are key,” Mukaila explains. “These factors can significantly enhance their productivity and income.”
But the road is not without its obstacles. The study finds that age and household size can inhibit a woman’s annual income. As women age and their families grow, their earning potential often diminishes, trapping them in a cycle of poverty.
So, how can this research shape future developments in the field? For one, it underscores the need for targeted support. Financial assistance and adult education centers could empower these women, enhancing their productivity and income. This, in turn, could improve their food security status and overall well-being, contributing to the United Nations’ first Sustainable Development Goal of ending poverty.
But the implications extend beyond the fields. The energy sector, for instance, could play a pivotal role. Access to affordable and reliable energy could revolutionize agriculture, making it more efficient and profitable. Solar-powered irrigation systems, for example, could help women farmers overcome water scarcity, while energy-efficient tools could reduce their labor burden.
Moreover, the study highlights the importance of cooperation and credit access. Energy companies could partner with local cooperatives, providing them with the financial and technical support they need to adopt clean energy technologies. This could not only boost the women’s incomes but also contribute to Nigeria’s renewable energy goals.
The study, published in the Journal of Agribusiness and Rural Development, which translates to ‘Journal of Agricultural Business and Rural Development’ in English, is a call to action. It’s a reminder that poverty is not just a personal struggle, but a societal challenge that requires collective effort. And it’s a beacon of hope, illuminating the path to a future where rural women in Enugu State, and beyond, can break free from the shackles of poverty and thrive.