By Obieri, Anthonia Uzoamaka
Shortage of labour has been traced variously to lack of
money to hire labour, increased enrolment of youth into
schools, as well as rural-urban migration of a more productive
labour force. This study aimed at studying the roles of women
groups in agricultural production in Abakaliki zone of Ebonyi
State. The study covered three Local Government Areas:
Ohaukwu, Abakaliki and Izzi. A total of 90 women groups and
non-group members were sampled for the study. Frequency
scoqes, percentages, means and factor analysis were used for
data analysis. The result shows that women groups have been
existing before Nigeria's Independence to uphold certain
functions. However, there was no particular rule for the
formation since two or more women who are in dynamic
interrelation with one another can form a group. The criteria
for membership in a group is determined by the composition of
the members of such groups. The formal groups have
constitutions, objectives and officials to sustain their
groups but the informal groups do not have such, as a result
of this they disengage after each farming season. It was
found that women's labour constituted about 84% of the total.
labour used in farm operation even though more of women's time
is used for domestic chores and child care. As a result of
this women resorted to exchange labour groups which offers
them economics of time. Moreso, women in groups have more
access to agricultural information. In addition, group
facilitate adoption of new techniques. However, it was found
that appropriate technology, land, time, mobility and
education were general constraints to women farmers.