Assessing the Gender Roles in the Aquaculture Value Chain in Mbeya Region

Gender inclusion within the aquaculture value chain is a critical factor in the development of the subsector. However, the extent to which gender roles influence participation in the Oreochromis niloticus (Nile tilapia) value chain in Mbeya region, Tanzania, is still unknown. Therefore, this study investigated the involvement of men and women on various nodes of the cultured Nile tilapia value chain in Mbeya region. Data collection spanned six months from January to June 2022, employing a combination of primary and secondary data (mixed methods) gathered through both field and desk research. Furthermore, a multi-stage sampling approach was utilized to select respondents, and both qualitative and quantitative data were collected and analyzed. The Duncan index of similarities revealed a 40% segregation of nodes within the cultured Nile tilapia value chain. Further examination revealed that men dominated the production stage at 82.7%, while women had active roles in the processing (58.7%) and trading (78.7%) stages. A significant majority (60%) of the sample size perceived equitable participation of all household members in value chain responsibilities. In terms of decision-making, both men and women were actively engaged, amounting to 69.3% of the respondents. Whereas on income generation, most (78.7%) of the respondents observed no significant gender disparities. Furthermore, in the context of land ownership, the majority (45.3%) reported family ownership. While task allocation decisions were made with input from both males and females, accounting for 70.7% of respondents. These findings suggest that gender roles indeed play a significant role in the Oreochromis niloticus value chain in Mbeya Region. Therefore, it is important to increase female participation in the production phase, while also encouraging greater male involvement in other parts of the value chain, such as processing and trade. This strategy will help to promote diversity and inclusion. Diverse teams bring a variety of perspectives, ideas, and approaches, leading to better problem-solving and improving overall value chain performance. Key words: Fish farming, Gender, Nile Tilapia, Value chain, Mbeya region, Tanzania