Author(s): Noel Mweta, Alex Somuah-Obeng, John Windie Ansah
This study analysed the intra-household gender dynamics in oil palm production among indigenous rural farmers in Karonga district, Malawi. Qualitative and quantitative methodologies were used to solicit information from indigenous rural farmers involved in oil palm production. The findings revealed striking incongruity between the perceived division of labour and decision-making authority among indigenous rural farmers involved in oil palm production. While there is a perception of equal participation in decision-making processes, the reality is far more nuanced, with women consistently marginalised in their control over income and access to land inheritance. The unequal land inheritance not only undermines women’s socio-economic status but also perpetuate cycles of dependency and vulnerability among women. The study recommends that addressing the root causes of gender disparities requires multifaceted strategies that challenge discriminatory norms, promote women’s rights, and create enabling environments for women’s empowerment