Gendered Challenges in Vanilla Production: A Case of Women Farmers in Hai District, Tanzania
Abstract
This study examines the roles, challenges, and potential of women vanilla producers in Hai District, Tanzania. A descriptive research design was employed, using Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), and surveys to collect qualitative and quantitative data from women farmers. Findings show that women participate in nearly all stages of vanilla cultivation, from field preparation and planting to hand pollination, harvesting, sorting, and marketing, while also managing domestic responsibilities. Their engagement in technical tasks, such as hand pollination, demonstrates significant agricultural knowledge and contribution to household welfare and local productivity. However, women face major constraints, including limited access to structured markets, reliable buyers, formal advisory services, and financial support. Reliance on informal channels and the absence of cooperatives and contracts reduce bargaining power, income stability, and access to innovation. The study recommends formalising vanilla value chains through cooperative marketing, strengthened advisory services, and integration of women into organised markets to enhance productivity, income, and gender equity in the sector
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