Empowering Women Farmers Could Boost Global Food Production
The article examines if focusing on women in agriculture can boost productivity. Many studies show that once factors like resources and farming techniques are accounted for, there are minimal productivity differences between men and women. The challenge lies in measuring individual productivity accurately. Most research compares productivity on farms managed solely by men or women but overlooks households where both genders participate. So far, little data pinpoint the best strategy for boosting productivity – whether by targeting women, men, or both. Failure to consider the differing roles, resources, and challenges of men and women in farming is likely to hamper efforts to improve productivity and support small-scale farmers of all genders.