RURAL ECONOMY OF WOMEN'S HOUSEHOLDS IN THE TAHOUA REGION (NIGER)

Abstract

The Tahoua region of Niger is subdivided into three agro-ecological zones: agricultural, agropastoral and pastoral. The majority of the population lives in rural areas in sedentary and nomadic villages and camps. The latter are composed of communities led by male and female heads of household. This article focuses on the rural economy of these households. The results of the field investigations indicate that this household economy is characterized by access to natural resources and ownership of livestock. All income-generating activities for households depend on agricultural production from family farms or fields and livestock production from livestock ownership. The analysis shows that male households own more livestock than female households, so agricultural products provide more income for male heads of household, followed by transfers, petty trade and livestock. Female households earn more income from petty trade than from other activities. As a result, the average income of men is higher than that of women. Of the total sample, 76% make do with only one of the three daily meals, while only 9% of male households manage to guarantee all three daily meals. Households live in a precarious rural economy and spend more in the rainy season. Finally, female households appear to be more vulnerable to insecurity and poverty in Tahoua region.