The effect of gender norms on women’s participation in maize marketing in Nwoya District

Abstract

The study examined the effect of gender norms on women’s participation and decision-making in maize marketing in Nwoya District, Northern Uganda. Specifically, it sought to (1) examine how gender norms affect women’s access to maize markets, (2) explore the gendered division of roles and responsibilities in maize production and marketing within local value chains, and (3) identify challenges and opportunities for promoting women’s meaningful engagement in maize marketing through gender-responsive strategies and interventions. A mixed-methods convergent parallel design was employed, integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitative data were collected from 62 respondents (women), whereas qualitative data were obtained through 4 focus group discussions and 10 key informant interviews with male marketers, community leaders, extension officers, and market officials. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, whereas qualitative data were thematically analyzed to understand the influence of social norms, roles, and perceptions on women’s participation in maize marketing. Findings revealed that women dominated maize production but faced restricted participation in marketing activities requiring mobility, negotiation, and public engagement due to entrenched gender norms. Men were perceived as primary negotiators and traders, limiting women’s bargaining power and economic autonomy. Household and social support, group membership, and personal savings were key enablers, whereas low market prices, lack of transport, limited storage, and inadequate business training constrained women’s engagement. Participation in cooperatives and producer groups improved women’s agency and decision-making, suggesting that collective action can partially mitigate gender-based barriers. The study concluded that gender norms continue to shape women’s access, decision-making, and profitability in maize marketing in Nwoya district, despite growing recognition of women’s capacity to participate. Interventions targeting social norms, practical market skills, access to transport and finance, and cooperative mobilization are critical to improving women’s economic empowerment and equitable participation in maize value chains. The study recommended further research to examine the long-term impacts of women’s participation in maize marketing on household economic outcomes and broader community development.