Determinant factors of rural Women's livelihood diversification in Meket Woreda, Ethiopia

Abstract

Gender is an integral part of rural livelihoods, with livelihood diversification being more critical for rural women than men. The disparity arises from differences in assets, access to resources, and opportunities. Discrimination often limits women's educational opportunities, and men frequently mediate women's access to productive resources. This research aims to identify the key factors determining rural women's efforts to diversify their livelihoods in Meket Woreda. A cross-sectional survey was used to gather data from 251 women-headed households in three rural kebeles (the smallest administrative unit in Ethiopia), which were then analyzed using multinomial logistic regression. Age, marital status, proximity to markets, training opportunities, and access to credit, land, water, and agricultural inputs all had a positive impact on women's livelihood diversification (p < 0.05). Family size, education level, domestic chores, and safety net aid all had negative impacts on women's livelihood diversification (p < 0.05). The study demonstrates rural women's reliance on traditional farming practices and highlights the importance of tailored support to diversify their livelihood and improve their overall well-being.