Abstract

This study examines the agricultural contributions of rural women to livelihood and food security in Ngendzen Mbam, a village in the Nkum Sub-Division of Cameroon. The research seeks to understand the role of women in agriculture and how their activities contribute to both household sustenance and broader food security in the community. By focusing on the challenges faced by rural women in agricultural production, this study aims to highlight their critical role and suggest strategies to enhance their impact on food security.

A mixed-method approach was employed in gathering data. Surveys and in-depth interviews were conducted with rural women involved in agriculture, community leaders, and agricultural extension officers. Additionally, observations of farming activities and data on crop yields were collected to assess the extent of women’s contributions to food production. Key areas of focus included crop cultivation, livestock rearing, food processing, and marketing, as well as the socio-economic challenges that rural women face in their agricultural endeavors.

The findings reveal that rural women in Ngendzen Mbam are central to the agricultural sector, contributing significantly to both food production and income generation. Women are primarily involved in subsistence farming, growing staple crops such as maize, beans, and cassava, which are essential for household food security. They also engage in small-scale livestock rearing and food processing activities that add value to their agricultural produce. Despite their substantial contributions, rural women face numerous challenges, including limited access to land, credit, and agricultural inputs. Cultural norms and gender roles also restrict their decision-making power in agricultural activities and limit their ability to scale up production.

Despite these challenges, the resilience and adaptability of rural women in Ngendzen Mbam are evident. They employ various strategies to overcome constraints, such as forming cooperative groups to pool resources and share knowledge. These initiatives not only enhance productivity but also strengthen community food security. However, the study identifies a need for targeted interventions, including access to improved farming technologies, financial services, and capacity-building programs to empower rural women and maximize their contributions to food security.

In conclusion, rural women in Ngendzen Mbam play a vital role in ensuring household and community food security through their agricultural activities. Strengthening their capacity and addressing the challenges they face is essential for improving livelihoods and enhancing food security in the region. Policymakers and development agencies should prioritize gender-sensitive agricultural interventions that support rural women and their critical contributions to the agricultural sector.

Keywords: Rural women, Agriculture, Food security, Livelihood, Ngendzen Mbam, Nkum Sub-Division, Cameroon, Gender roles, Agricultural challenges, Community resilience.