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Gender Inequality in Access to Quality Landand Its Impact on Food Security: Empirical Evidence from Agricultural Households in Togo

Author

Listed:
  • Kodjo Théodore Gnedeka
  • Kossi Duato Akpodo
  • Kossigan Tobi
  • Kokouvi Paul Agossou

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the impact of gender inequality in access to high-quality land on the food security of agricultural households in Togo. Binary Logit and Generalized Ordered Logit (Gologit) models were applied to data from the Harmonized Survey on Household Living Conditions (EHCVM) conducted in 2021/2022 by Togo’s National Institute of Statistics and Economic and Demographic Studies (INSEED). The study reveals significant gender disparities, with 37% of women and 23.21% of men reporting limited access to high-quality land for farming. Furthermore, heterogeneities were observed based on the household head’s education level, marital status, and geographic location of the household. The findings identify gender, social capital, income, agricultural credit, and non-farm activities as the primary determinants of access to high-quality land in the study area. Empirical estimates highlight that household heads with access to only poor-quality land have a significantly higher probability of experiencing food insecurity. Finally, the mediation effect results indicate that while the adoption of chemical fertilizers may mitigate moderate food insecurity, it fails to address severe food insecurity. Consequently, this study suggests a critical reappraisal of land access policies for agricultural households in Togo to strengthen the national food security.

Suggested Citation

  • Kodjo Théodore Gnedeka & Kossi Duato Akpodo & Kossigan Tobi & Kokouvi Paul Agossou, 2026. "Gender Inequality in Access to Quality Landand Its Impact on Food Security: Empirical Evidence from Agricultural Households in Togo," European Journal of Development Studies, European Open Science, vol. 6(3), pages 33-43, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:epw:develo:v:6:y:2026:i:3:id:70289
    DOI: 10.24018/ejdevelop.2026.6.3.70289
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