The Role of Jordanian Women Farmers in Livestock Production with Implications to Agricultural Extension Education

Abstract

The role of women farmers in livestock production in Jordan, the influence of selected socio-economic factors on livestock involvement, and implications to extension activities were examined using factor analysis and non-parametric tests. Women farmers were found to have a significant role in livestock production activities, and in decision-making regarding livestock management. Contribution to production activities and participation in decision-making were found to be positively correlated. Gender division of labor was apparent, which implies that both men and women must have the technical know-how and ability to manage their area of responsibility. Women farmers were found to be under-served by extension services; less than one fifth of women were found to have access to state extension services and 3% to private extension. Gender-specific extension activities based on relevant information have to be implemented to improve livestock management, and to ease or to mechanize women tasks, using appropriate methods and approaches of extension.