Gender roles in fisheries post-harvesting activities in catch-locations within Coastal Areas of Lagos State Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the gender roles in Fisheries Post-harvesting Activities (FPhA), which stems from a significant knowledge gap regarding gender roles in the subsistence fishery industry. The research was conducted in five catch-locations within the coastal areas of Lagos State, Nigeria, namely: Ikorodu, Badagry, Epe, Lekki and Makoko. The respondents were selected using purposive and snowballing sampling techniques. A validated structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Chi-square analysis (x 2 = 22.6, df 2) revealed that gender participation was significantly different (P<0.05). The study identified "knife", "smoking kiln" and "baskets" as the major equipment used by fisher folks; while it also noted "personal interest", and "a means of sustenance" as the main reason(s) for participation. Findings across the locations show that despite the fact that both genders are engaged in various FPhA; certain activities are gender specific. To aid the efficiency of fisher folks in FPhA, fish processing center with modern facilities should be built across the catch locations. Policy makers in the domain of FPhA should involve women in policy formulation and decision-making due to their huge clear dominance. Finally, to bridge the gender participation gap in FPhA for employment and income purposes, there is a need for training and capacity building targeted especially for male fishers.