Gender-based barriers hindering the uptake of CSA and CIS technologies in rice production systems in Mali

Women face significant challenges to adapt to the climate change effect in rice farming, due to socio-cultural norms, and unequal access to agricultural resources, climate-adapted technologies, and climate information services. This study explores the gendered constraints and opportunities in rice production in Mali, with the aims to identify enabling mechanisms that support women in accessing and using these climate smart technologies and practices. It is based on qualitative data collected from 12 circles in five rice growing regions in Mali (Ségou, Sikasso, Koulikoro, Dioila, and San) among 35 key informant interviews (KIIs) held with 259 respondents (171 men and 88 women), and 40 sex-disaggregated focus group discussions (FGDs), that engaged 348 farmers (180 men and 168 women). Findings reveal that barriers to adoption of CSA and CIS technologies include socio-cultural norms, financial barriers, limited training and literacy, as well as differences in access to and control over agricultural resources; women experience additional challenge such as limited access to farmland, reliance on male counterparts for equipment, and restricted access to credit. The study recommends gender-inclusive strategies including delivering information in local languages, expanding training opportunities for farmers, and improving women’s access to credit. Awareness campaigns on climate-resilient crop varieties and sustainable practices can increase adoption and build women resilience in rice-based farming systems.