Gender Implications of Biofuels Expansion in Africa: The Case of Mozambique

Channing Arndt, Rui Benfica and James Thurlow

No 332161, Conference papers from Purdue University, Center for Global Trade Analysis, Global Trade Analysis Project

Abstract: We use a gendered dynamic CGE model to assess the implications of biofuels expansion in a low-income, land-abundant setting. Mozambique is chosen as a representative case. We compare scenarios with different gender employment intensities in producing jatropha feedstock for biodiesel. Under all scenarios, biofuels investments accelerate GDP growth and reduce poverty. However, a stronger trade-off between biofuels and food availability emerges when female labor is used intensively, as women are drawn away from food production. A skillsshortage amongst female workers also limits poverty reduction. Policy simulations indicate that only modest improvements in women’s education and food crop yields are needed to address food security concerns and ensure broader-based benefits from biofuels investments.

Keywords: Labor and Human Capital; Resource/Energy Economics and Policy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Pages: 29
Date: 2011
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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Related works:
Working Paper: Gender Implications of Biofuels Expansion in Africa: The Case of Mozambique (2012)
Journal Article: Gender Implications of Biofuels Expansion in Africa: The Case of Mozambique (2011)
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:ags:pugtwp:332161

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