The Influence of Female Farmers in Digital Urban Agriculture in Khartoum State: Examining Gender Challenges and Opportunities

Nagwa Babiker Abdalla Yousif (), Shadia Abdel Rahim Mohammed, Enaam Youssef and Sarra Behari
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Nagwa Babiker Abdalla Yousif: Sociology Department, Ajman University, Ajman 346, United Arab Emirates
Shadia Abdel Rahim Mohammed: School of Rural Extension Education and Development (REED), Ahfad University for Women, Arda Street, P.O. Box 167, Omdurman 14411, Sudan
Enaam Youssef: Sociology Department, Ajman University, Ajman 346, United Arab Emirates
Sarra Behari: School of Rural Extension Education and Development (REED), Ahfad University for Women, Arda Street, P.O. Box 167, Omdurman 14411, Sudan

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 22, 1-26

Abstract: Digital tools and platforms offer significant potential to address critical gaps in market access, credit availability, and agricultural knowledge, particularly in urban and peri-urban areas. This is especially relevant in regions like Sudan, where these opportunities remain largely underexplored. By providing real-time market information, facilitating financial access, and offering essential agricultural training, these tools can help bridge traditional barriers, improve decision-making capabilities, and contribute to sustainable agriculture. Such advancements strengthen economic resilience and promote equity in agriculture, enabling these farmers to drive innovation and sustainability in the industry. Our study was conducted in Omdurman’s Algamwai area during 2022 and 2023, and involved interviews with 100 female farmers. It explored the intersection of gender, technology, and socioeconomic equity. It highlighted how technological advancements can enhance agricultural productivity and market access while addressing challenges such as limited digital literacy and socioeconomic constraints. Despite structural inequalities—including restricted land ownership (45%), limited credit access (5%), and inadequate extension services—female farmers are driving innovation and sustainability by adopting sustainable practices, enhancing food security, and building community resilience. Digital urban agriculture provides income opportunities (76% rely on it) and serves as a platform for equitable participation. From a social science perspective, this research underscores the need to address systemic disparities to unlock the full potential of farmers. Policies ensuring equitable access to resources, credit, and technology are essential for fostering participation and maximizing the socio-economic benefits of digital agriculture in Sudan and similar contexts.

Keywords: female farmers; digital urban agriculture; gender disparities; social challenges (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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