In the heart of Malawi, a silent battle is being waged against the encroaching threats of climate change. Farmers, the unsung heroes of the land, are on the frontlines, adapting and innovating to ensure their crops survive the increasingly unpredictable weather patterns. But a new study, led by Sibongile Zimba from the Centre for Plant Sciences at the University of Leeds, reveals that this battle is not just against the elements, but also against deeply ingrained gender inequalities that shape how farmers choose and cultivate their crops.
The research, published in Plants, People, Planet, delves into the world of sorghum and pearl millet farmers in southern Malawi, a region notorious for its droughts. Zimba and her team discovered that male and female farmers have starkly different priorities when it comes to selecting crop varieties and practices. While men tend to focus on traits that promise higher yields and economic gains, women are more concerned with post-harvest qualities and grain handling attributes that ensure food security for their families.
“This isn’t just about what crops they choose, but how they choose them,” Zimba explains. “Gender norms and climate risk knowledge play a significant role in these decisions. Women, for instance, are more likely to consider traits that ensure a steady food supply throughout the year, while men often prioritize traits that can be sold for profit.”
The findings have profound implications for the future of agriculture and the energy sector, which relies heavily on crops for biofuels and other renewable energy sources. By understanding and addressing these gender differences, crop breeders and policymakers can develop more targeted, effective, and inclusive strategies for climate-smart agriculture.
Imagine a future where crop varieties are designed with the specific needs and preferences of both male and female farmers in mind. This could lead to a significant boost in crop yields and resilience, benefiting not just the farmers but also the energy sector, which could secure a more stable supply of biofuel crops. Moreover, by empowering women farmers and giving them equal access to resources and knowledge, we can unlock a wealth of untapped potential, driving innovation and adaptation in the face of climate change.
The study also highlights the need for greater gender equality in decision-making processes and access to resources. Currently, men often have preferential access to knowledge and resources, further entrenching these inequalities. By addressing these issues, we can create a more equitable and resilient agricultural system, better equipped to face the challenges of climate change.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that the path to climate-smart agriculture lies in understanding and addressing the complex interplay of gender, climate risk knowledge, and crop choices. By doing so, we can create a more sustainable and inclusive agricultural system, benefiting farmers, communities, and the energy sector alike. The insights from Zimba’s research, published in Plants, People, Planet (which translates to “Plants, People, Planet” in English), offer a compelling roadmap for this journey, one that prioritizes the needs and voices of all farmers, regardless of gender.