GENDER AND LAND USE FOR FARMING IN RURAL UBAHA-AKPULU COMMUNITY IMO STATE NIGERIA

Abstract

Land is an important resource in African farming systems. It is the solid part of the earth's surface and includes the rivers, streams, lakes, ponds, hills, mountains valleys. In fact, it is fundamental to people's existence in most rural communities. In a predominantly farming community land is equal to life, and most activities revolve around land. Access to this important resource in our farming system is, therefore, critical to the life and well-being of the people in our rural economies. This papers examines the issues of gender by examining the differential access to this resource among men and women in our rural communities. Using Ubaha-Akpulu community in Ideato-North L.G.A of Imo State as a case study, the paper explores the dynamics of gender in the processes governing ownership and control of land resources in the community. Specifically, we look at the ownership structure, method of allocation, the target users, costs (if any), and the factors that play out in the allocation and how women’s needs are addressed in the process. The findings inform our stance and recommendations for gender -inclusiveness in policy formulations that will place women on a proper footing in rural agricultural reforms.