Patriarchy and gender relations analysis in agriculture: case of T/A Chindi, Mzimba

Abstract

This study assessed the relationship between patriarchy, gender relations and agricultural productivity, focusing on how these dynamics shape gender relations and contributions within agricultural systems. Using qualitative methodology, data was collected by observations, interview guide and checklist from the people living within T/A Chindi in Mzimba, particularly on how patriarchy influence gender inequality in relation to access, control and ownership of agricultural resources. Mzimba district is a patrilineal society and the main source of livelihood is agriculture. While women are often the backbone of food production in many communities, particularly in patrilineal tradition, they face significant challenges in accessing agricultural resources, and decision-making power due to deeply ingrained patriarchal norms. The study aimed at assessing the resilient of women to patriarchy traditions in relations to agricultural productivity, through an empirical investigation of people from T/A Chindi in northern Malawi, Mzimba district, with specific objectives on assessing the gender inequality experienced in relation to agricultural productivity in the area of T/A Chindi, to analyse the resilient practices women employ to recover from the negative implications of patriarchy and gender inequality, then to examine the coping mechanism women employ in order to manage the negative implications of patriarchy in relation to agricultural productivity. The research aimed to reveal the economic implications caused by patriarchy and identify strategies for promoting more equitable systems in agriculture. The study used the phenomenology approach to determine the scope of resilient practices and coping mechanism women employ to counter patriarchy and enhance agricultural productivity. The findings reveal that patriarchy systems perpetuate gender based inequalities, limiting women’s agricultural productivity and empowerment. However, the study also highlights the strength of women through resilient and coping strategies employed to challenge patriarchy and enhance agricultural productivity. The research contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between patriarchy, gender relations and agricultural productivity, offering insight for policy makers, gender practitioners and scholars seeking to promote equitable and sustainable agricultural development.