Gender Dynamics in Small Ruminant Husbandry Technology Adoption in the Wa East District of the Upper West Region of Ghana

Abstract

The study investigated the gender dynamics in small ruminant husbandry technology adoption among farmers In the Wa East District of the Upper West Region. Gender sensitivity of the Tumu Deanery Rural Integrated Development Programme (TUDRIDEP) was examined; access and control of production resources were described and institutional rules and norms guiding small ruminant production and marketing examined. A single embedded case study design with a convergent parallel mixed methods approach was employed. Data was collected using structured interview schedule and interview guides. Quantitative data analysis generated descriptive and inferential statistics. Qualitative data was analysed along themes. Results showed that TUDRIDEP is gender aware, with a gendered staff structure that met a practical gender need. Although there were no significant gender differences in overall adoption levels and perception of technology attributes, gender division of labour explained significant gender differences in adoption of certain technology components. All respondents had access to production resources and benefits from animal sales. Men had oversight authority over household members and assets. Institutional rules and norms guiding small ruminant rearing changed with triggering effect in others. The study concludes that the gender sensitivity and ideology of the organisation influences the kind of gender policy intervention implemented and needs met. It recommends that gender analysis should be undertaken to guide gender targeting and choice of appropriate strategies before introducing small ruminant technologies.