Gender Analysis of Agri-Cooperatives, comparative study of Angola and Zambia

Sarah Waltrová

Bachelor's thesis

Abstract:

The gender perspective in policymaking, support mechanisms, and organizational structures is largely neglected, especially in the agriculture sector of Sub-Saharan countries. The cooperatives have been used as a tool for the eradication of poverty and social development. This literature review fills knowledge gaps through a gender analysis of Angolan and Zambian agriculture cooperatives viewed through political, economic, and social perspectives. Case studies of Angola and Zambia were viewed from a macro perspective, how cooperatives promote gender equality, and from a micro perspective that identifies the impacts on individuals, men, and women who are part of agricultural cooperatives. The study uses the comparative indicators developed based on the Social Relations Approach and Gender Analysis Guidance Tool Indicators. Three clusters of indicators were evaluated; such as legal indicators: Rules and Power, economic indicators: Resources and Activities, and social indicators: Needs and Interests. The study has conducted a study on the effectiveness of the cooperative model for agriculture improvements which has shown benefits such as finances, training, knowledge sharing, and bargaining power, however, barriers of lack of knowledge, skills, and community. Both countries have implemented cooperatives into national development strategies but even tough, though there are benefits affecting the women’s and men’s equality there are still gaps and barriers which have to be further improved.

Keywords

Gender Empowerment, Labor Division, Cooperatives

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 16. 4. 2022

Thesis defence

• Supervisor: Ing. Jana Mazancová, Ph.D.

Czech University of Life Sciences Prague

Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences

Bachelor programme:
International Cooperation in Agricultural and Rural Development