WOMEN’S PARTICIPATION IN AQUACULTURE IN GWALE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KANO STATE

Abstract This study examines women's participation in aquaculture within Gwale Local Government Area of Kano State, Nigeria. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, collecting data from 100 respondents, predominantly women (92%), across diverse age groups and educational backgrounds. Findings reveal that women participate extensively throughout the aquaculture value chain, with significant contributions to household income (77% of respondents derive 25%- 95% of household income from aquaculture). The study identifies a remarkably high rate of cooperative membership (97%) and unexpected financial inclusion (86% access to credit), challenging traditional assumptions about women's economic exclusion in Northern Nigeria. The research uncovers significant income stratification within the sector (monthly incomes ranging from ₦100,000 to ₦500,000), suggesting varied participation levels and economic outcomes. Training needs heavily favor technical skills (71%) over business management (20%), financial management (5%), and marketing skills (4%), indicating potential gaps in entrepreneurial capacity development. Participants' perceptions of challenges are polarized, with 45% finding participation "challenging" or "very challenging" while 44% report lower difficulty levels. The study contextualizes these findings within Northern Nigeria's unique socio-cultural environment, where women's economic participation intersects with traditional gender roles and religious practices. The research contributes to both theoretical understanding and practical policy formulation, highlighting opportunities to enhance women's participation in aquaculture through targeted interventions addressing identified barriers while leveraging existing strengths such as cooperative structures and emerging financial inclusion mechanisms. The research underscore that advancing gender equality in the aquaculture sector requires addressing both practical constraints and strategic interests across multiple dimensions of participation. And its is recommended that Gender-Responsive Aquaculture policies should be formulated and Implemented.