Analysis of Gender Participation in Fish Production Value Chain in Akpabuyo, Cross River State Nigeria

Abstract

The importance of fish in the diet of any human cannot be over-emphasized. The aim of this paper was to assess gender participation in fish production chain by specifically examining the socio-economic characteristics of respondents, fish product chain and value addition and gender participation in the different fish product chain as well as the challenges they face. The study was conducted in Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria A simple random sampling technique was used to select one hundred (100) women fish farmers for the study and questionnaire administered while data obtained were analyzed using simple frequency and percentages. The result showed that male (55%) participated in fish production chain and are married 51%, while a major fish value added activity was smoking and drying of fish using solar power was ranked 1st with the mean of 3.00. In terms of gender role, women have less access to resources and decision making ranked 1st (3.00). The implication is that gender participation may led to poverty reduction and food security enhancement among respondents and so there should be a level playing field for all gender to participate actively in fish production value chain.