Exploring Gender Gaps in Technology Adoption and Agricultural Productivity: insights from Male and Female Plot Managers in Malawi

Ruth Magreta, Rosemary Botha, Francesca Marchetta (), Wisdom Mgomezulu, Martin Limbikani Mwale and Grace Tione
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Francesca Marchetta: CERDI - Centre d'Études et de Recherches sur le Développement International - IRD - Institut de Recherche pour le Développement - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique - UCA - Université Clermont Auvergne
Martin Limbikani Mwale: SU - Stellenbosch University
Grace Tione: University of Malawi

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Abstract: This study investigates gender-based disparities in the adoption of erosion control strategies and maize productivity in Malawi. We analyze these dynamics using comprehensive plot-level data collected in 2013, 2016, and 2019. Our results indicate that male plot managers are more likely to adopt erosion control strategies compared to their female counterparts. However, the adoption of erosion control strategies does not significantly increase maize productivity, regardless of the plot manager's gender, except for plots cultivated in female-headed households and at times of heavy rainfall. This finding opens avenues for future research on the circumstances under which erosion control strategies effectively enhance crop productivity. Results also show that, when controlling for plot, farmer, and household characteristics, plots managed by women are found to be equally productive as those managed by men.

Keywords: female-managed plots; male-managed plots; gender differences; maize productivity; erosion control strategies; Technology adoption (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026-02-12
Note: View the original document on HAL open archive server: https://uca.hal.science/hal-05530683v1
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Published in The Journal of Development Studies, 2026, pp.1-24. ⟨10.1080/00220388.2025.2607413⟩

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:hal:journl:hal-05530683

DOI: 10.1080/00220388.2025.2607413

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