Analysis of Gender Role on Soybean Market Participation in Bambasi District Benishangual - Gumuz Regional State, Ethiopia

This paper examines the role of gender in soybean market participation, focusing on the factors that influence the involvement of male- and female-headed households in the soybean market. It also explores the challenges and opportunities associated with market participation. The study is based on data collected from 140 soybean-producing households in Bambasi district, located in the Benishangul-Gumuz Region of Ethiopia. Using a structured questionnaire, data were gathered and analyzed through both descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Findings indicate that female soybean farmers are less active participants in the soybean market compared to their male counterparts. The descriptive analysis identified key factors affecting women’s market participation, including access to market information, educational level, cooperative membership, non-farm income, and farm size all of which were found to be significant. Major constraints faced by soybean producers in the area include limited market access, low selling prices, lack of credit, inadequate market information, high transportation costs, and security concerns. Women were over burden in reproductive activities. The result indicated that in MHH, men took the higher position in making the decision of the household. In the same manner in FHH, women made the major decision of the household. In conclusion the role of men and women are different, and the significance of women role is not equally valued. The study recommends ensuring that women farmers have easy access to markets, market information, and productive resources to enhance their market participation. The government and other stakeholders should prioritize addressing gender-specific issues and disparities, particularly for soybean sellers and women farmers in general.