Gender dynamics among fish entrepreneurs: A Case of Kipumbwi Ward in Pangani District Council, Tanzania

Abstract

Dynamics in gender roles vary regionally, economically, and culturally in the entire fisheries value chain. This paper examines gender dynamics among fish entrepreneurs. Specifically, focused on the identification of fishing activities, assessed challenges, and established measures against stipulated challenges. The study was conducted in the Pangani district council. A mixed-methods design based on the principle of triangulation was employed. A structured questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data, while a checklist guiding tool was used to collect qualitative data from the key informants. Quantitative data were analysed through the SPSS programme, while qualitative data were manually analysed through content analysis. The process involved carefully reading the data to gain an in-depth understanding and identifying key issues that emerged. Stratified sampling was used, and 202(100%) respondents were interviewed, out of which 151(75%) were males and 51(25%) were females. Four (4) in-depth interviews were conducted with the key informants, as they were familiar with the experience of the topic under study. Fishing activities carried out by women include carrying fish from the boat by 162(80%), food vendors by 139(69%), seaweed farming by 134(66%), and frying and selling small fish by 143(71%). On the contrary, men were responsible for fishing by 197(98%). Other activities were selling big fish by 173(86%) and removal of fish scale by 156(77%). Challenges include accidents, loans with high interest rates, lack of security boat, unpredictable income, improper market, high taxes, and lack of capital. Study findings reported mitigation measures that include building of modern market, modern ways of fishing, capital assistance, a conducive environment for fishing activities, and the provision of entrepreneurship skills. Policy makers were informed through study recommendations, such as the creation of a conducive environment for fishing activities and recognising fishers, for their sustainability.