The National Gender Policy in Uganda emphasizes gender mainstreaming, but women still face economic disparities. The 2020 UBOS report shows that while 88% of women and 78% of men in agricultural households engage in farming, women face greater challenges due to discriminatory norms limiting access to land, labor, equipment, and finances. They also bear a heavier burden of unpaid domestic work and are excluded from leadership roles (FAO, 2020). Despite women's high involvement in agriculture, they remain poorer than men. The SDIP and Participatory Poverty Assessment (2002) highlight women’s limited control over livelihood assets as a key cause of poverty. While 83% of women participate in agriculture, only 25.5% control the land they farm (UDHS, 2001/01). The MTIC, through the Department of Cooperatives, has pushed for at least one-third female representation on cooperative boards. However, gender disparities persist in membership and leadership, limiting women’s and youth’s benefits from cooperatives. EFEFAa Women Farmers Network (eWofanet) is committed to addressing these inequalities within its membership by developing and implementing gender-responsive policies and ensuring inclusive governance structures, and promoting equitable decision-making within the value the chains.
