Intra-household Gender Dynamics and Time Poverty: Implications for Farm Income and Well-Being in Rural Ethiopia

Abstract

In rural Ethiopia, agriculture is not only an economic activity but also deeply intertwined with gender norms and cultural practices. The normative work culture, coupled with limited infrastructure and inadequate education, affects both agricultural practices and individual well-being in rural communities. Therefore, to ensure the alignment of rural policies with the 2030 Development Agenda (SDG5), it is essential to examine and address gender dynamics within households in terms of gendered division of labor and time poverty. To obtain comprehensive data, the research uses a mixed-methods approach, combining a survey of 400 randomly selected farmers with qualitative data from focus group discussions and field observations. Quantitative analysis measures time-use patterns, farm income, and decision-making power, while qualitative insights explore cultural norms and individual experiences. Statistical models, including multinomial logistic regression, linear regression, and logit analysis, were used to assess the determinants of household decision-making, farm income, and time poverty. The triangulated results show gender disparities in time use, with women working 11.52 hours more per day than men (10.22 hours) to balance unpaid domestic and agricultural work. Their disproportionate workload limits their ability to participate in income-generating and personal development activities. In addition, households where women face higher levels of time poverty report lower agricultural productivity and greater economic vulnerability. In addition, structural challenges such as inadequate rural infrastructure, limited access to labor-saving technologies, gender segregation of labor, wage differentials, cooperative exclusivity, gender-based abusive practices, and limited access to extension services further exacerbate gender inequalities. Deeply rooted cultural norms continue to reinforce male dominance in financial and agricultural decision-making, limiting women's influence both within households and in the wider community. Finally, the study calls for targeted policy interventions to promote labor-saving technologies, improve women's access to extension services, and increase women's participation in household and community decision-making as essential to achieving sustainable rural development and gender equality.