In the developing world, women have significant roles in food production and processing, and in providing for the nutritional needs of the family. It is important therefore, that advanced technology is available and suitable for use by women.
Be aware of household/family dynamics in order to ensure relevant targeting of technologies.
Involve women's groups that are concerned with food processing and other post-harvest activities in the design and implementation of research experiments. Advantage should be taken of such projects to meet nutritional needs of farmers and nutritionally vulnerable communities. In addition to research station sites, use farmers' fields for applied research.
Evaluate the potential gender impact of technology, ascertaining that new technologies do not shift extra farm responsibilities to women, and thus interfere with their childcare and family responsibilities. When possible, tasks of women should be reduced to allow more time for childcare.
Include women extension officers in advisory teams, especially in areas where women farmers play a role in crop production. With civil wars and migration, the number of female-headed households has increased and, accordingly, women have had to assume roles in food production and as primary income earners for their families. It is important therefore that women have access to extension specialists with whom they can relate.
Include women extension officers in advisory teams, especially in areas where women farmers play a significant role in food production.
Expand the extension coverage of women farmers by developing a deliberate policy to target women farmers. Commonly, crops grown by women are used for home consumption and, therefore, have a direct impact on household food security and nutrition.
Design extension programmes for women farmers that are relevant to their production activities. Target youths in all gender-related training to help change cultural stereotypes of gender roles. Young people also can help improve the adoption rates of technologies by influencing their parents.
