Unit summary

In this unit you learned about:

• the importance of women’s roles in agricultural production, and
• the traditional and modern agricultural techniques used by women across the world.

Women make essential contributions to agricultural and rural economies in all developing countries. Rural women in agricultural communities often manage both their household and the various tasks associated with farm work as well as alternative livelihood strategies. Their activities typically include producing agricultural crops, tending animals, processing and preparing food, working for wages in agricultural or other rural enterprises, collecting fuel and water, engaging in trade and marketing, caring for family members and maintaining their homes. Women also participate in home-based preservation and processing activities.

Many of the activities women take part in are not defined as “economically active employment” by governments but they are essential to providing food security and maintaining the general well-being of their households and communities.