Gender relations in the agrarian sector: case of Baixo Limpopo, City of Xai-Xai

Abstract

This paper analyzes gender relations in the agricultural sector in the Lower Limpopo Irrigation, City of Xai-Xai. The research was based on a literature review, interviews with entities in the agricultural sector at the District Department of Agriculture, the rice development company WANBAO and farmers based in the Lower Limpopo. The results show that there is greater involvement of women in agricultural activities compared to men. Regarding access to financial services for agricultural production, most women do not use financing for their productivity due to poor education, do not seek it due to lack of confidence and/or fear of not being able to reimburse the amount acquired due to the uncertainty of the activity. Regarding the level of development and institutional strengthening of gender, no activities were identified that aimed at greater involvement or strengthening of women in institutions, associations or even in local agricultural companies. It is recommended that the local government further strengthen the applicability of gender policies and strategies in the agricultural sector at the district level; and society is recommended to practice acts of solidarity that aim to increase the level of gender equality in Mozambique.Keywords: Gender and Sex. Feminism. Gender Strategy in the Agricultural Sector