GENDERED IMPACTS OF PROTRACTED CONFLICT ON AGRICULTURE IN BASSA, BARKIN LADI, AND RIYOM LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS OF PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA
Keywords:
Gendered Impacts, Protracted Conflict, Agriculture, Bassa, Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Plateau State, NigeriaAbstract
This study examines the gendered impacts of protracted conflict on agriculture in Bassa, Barkin Ladi, and Riyom Local Government Areas of Plateau State, Nigeria. These communities are predominantly agrarian. Farming is the main source of food and income for most families. The problem is that prolonged communal and farmer-herder conflicts have disrupted agricultural activities. These disruptions affect men and women differently. This study used a mixed-methods research design. A sample of 300 farmers (150 male, 150 female) was selected through stratified random sampling. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and in-depth interviews. Quantitative data was analyzed using mean scores. Qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings showed that conflict has led to massive loss of farmland, crops, and livestock. Women face greater difficulties in accessing inputs and markets. They also experience increased workload and food insecurity. The study concludes that conflict exacerbates gender inequalities in agriculture. It recommends gender-sensitive peacebuilding and agricultural support programs.
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