The Role of Women in Natural Resource Management: a Case of Two Wings Agroforestry Network-Kabale

Abstract

It is increasingly becoming important to address the many problems in the realm of natural resources in Uganda. The commitment is towards sustainable use, striking a balance between economic development and conservation interventions. Agroforestry has been identified as one of the important key approaches for reducing over exploitation of natural resources while sustaining food production for rural development. Modern Agroforestry is based on improved management and organization of traditional Agroforestry practices to give better results backed by scientific knowledge as a way of addressing problems associated with increased population pressure, land shortage and food security. Women have an essential contribution to make in the management of natural resources because they process several complementary attributes that are beneficial to ecologically sustainable development. The instrumental role of women in respect to the conservation of the environment stems from their tasks and responsibilities, and direct dependence on land based resources. This study was conducted to investigate the factors that cause low adoption of Agroforestry technologies by women of Two Wings Agroforestry Network in Kabale district. The study specifically looked at the three promoted technologies among others; home gardens, scattered trees and shrubs, and hedgerows. Data was collected by use of semi-structured interviews and Focused Group Discussions. PESTEC and Harvard Analysis tools were used to analyse data. Findings show that adoption of Agroforestry technologies in the study area was influenced by socio-cultural factors like gender roles, division of labour and cultural norms. Socioeconomic factors such as, education, marital status, land and tree tenure. Institutional factors like lack of natural resource bye laws. Women in the study area were aware of Agroforestry and more interested in the direct/ immediate benefits of the technologies. Home gardens are highly adopted compared to scattered trees/ shrubs, and hedge rows. There is need to further enhance dissemination through extension by all stakeholders. Relevant channels that suit women’s circumstances should be used to promote technologies that are not yet fully adopted.