Livelihood vulnerabilities among women in the bushmeat trade in Ghana during the COVID-19 pandemic

The bushmeat trade is a significant source of employment for women in Ghana; providing income-generating opportunities and supporting household livelihoods. However, there is a paucity of research on how the COVID-19 affected these women. Using qualitative data, this paper examines the livelihood vulnerabilities of women bushmeat traders during the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on their lived experiences, the study highlights interrelated factors shaping their vulnerability, including the association of the commodities with zoonotic diseases, the perishable nature of the commodity, limited economic resources, and weak protection systems. Despite these challenges, the women demonstrated resilience and agency in sustaining their livelihoods. The paper recommends that policy makers incorporate the needs of women bushmeat traders into interventions aimed at reducing vulnerability and sustaining their livelihoods.