The Gendered Impact of Agricultural Market Reforms on Financial Benefits in Uganda’s Smallholder Farming Households

This study examines the gendered effect of market reforms and accelerated commercialization on income in smallholder farming households in Uganda, focusing on Irish Potato farming households in Rubanda district. Using a sequential mixed-methods design with 201 potato farmers surveyed and qualitative data from interviews and FGDs, the research reveals that market reforms led to dichotomous income streams for male and female household members. While women’s income improvements enhanced their decision-making positions, commercialization increased men’s interest in previously women-dominated crops, perpetuating unequal gender income relations and highlighting the need for targeted training and capacity building for women farmers.