Smallholder agriculture is the backbone of rural economies in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) but is constrained by several gender gaps. Closing these gaps is important not only for improving equity but also for efficiency and productivity. Past research has notable deficiencies, including the literature on cash crop production, on the use of inputs such as pesticides, and on the marketing of outputs. The role of farmer training in improving outcomes likewise requires further research.
By analysing a unique panel dataset that includes a randomised control trial component in Uganda in 2009-10, this thesis examines how outcomes relating to pesticide use, technical efficiency (TE) and output marketing in smallholder cotton farming are associated with household head gender and training interventions.
By conducting a panel random effects analysis, the first empirical chapter reveals that female-headed households (FHH) apply pesticides in lower quantities and spray less frequently than male-headed households (MHH). Findings show that although training alone does not change pesticide use, an additional pesticide subsidy does.
The second empirical chapter estimates a panel stochastic frontier model to quantify the determinants of TE in cotton production. It finds that the gender of the household head is not associated with efficiency. The extension of cotton alone does not affect TE; only when it is complemented with free pesticides does TE increase.
Using a range of panel estimators suitable for linear, count and categorical variables, the third empirical chapter examines five cotton marketing outcomes. It reveals that FHH face gender disadvantages in terms of the average quantity of cotton sold per instalment and the mode of transportation used. Furthermore, training improves the mode of transportation used.
The findings of this thesis are relevant to ongoing debates concerning gender equity strategies in agriculture, reform of extension services, and input subsidies in SSA.
