Gender Gap in the Employment Share of Males and Females Engaged in Cereal Production: The Case of Zambia

Agriculture is one of the most important economic sectors in Zambia. This paper empirically examined the gender gap in the employment shares of male and female in agriculture specifically in cereal productivity, as well as the determinants of cereal productivity in Zambia from 1990 to 2022. This study employs the double-log model regression analysis to assess the determinants of cereal productivity. It finds a strong positive relationship between increased cereal yields and male employment. This underscores the critical role that male labour plays in sustaining cereal output. In addition to labour dynamics, the study highlights the critical role of fertilizer usage and precipitation in determining cereal productivity, reinforcing the importance of agricultural inputs and environmental factors in enhancing yields. Increased fertilizer consumption significantly boosts cereal yields, while adequate precipitation rainfall is essential for optimal crop growth, as it influences soil moisture, nutrient uptake and overall plant health. Lastly, the study reveals significant gaps in the employment shares of men and women in agriculture. The results show a 9.42% gender employment gap (GEG), which defies traditional gender norms and intriguingly favours female employment in agriculture. This finding highlights the significance of comprehending gender roles in agricultural production in Zambia.