A preliminary study of women working in agriculture in the locality of Mġarr

Abstract

The number of persons working as full-time farmers in the Maltese Islands has been decreasing at a fast pace especially in the last 50 years. Several factors have brought about this exodus from the countryside. This long essay embarks on a journey exploring the root problems which have led to this general decline in the agricultural sector. The literature review focuses on the impact which modem technology in this field has had on farming in general, with special reference to the female facet. It also sheds light on gender issues which concern the female farming population beyond our shores. The field research endeavours to discover the source of these problems by focusing on ten Mġarr female farmers. How do they spend their waking hours? What are their joys and disappointments? By interviewing these women some very interesting points are brought to light. They spend long hours of work, most of which are solely dedicated to their fields. Despite many setbacks encountered in their daily tasks, the majority are happy with their work and enjoy ample job satisfaction. Another researched and discussed aspect, is the question of what has become of farm children. Many have left agriculture altogether, others practise it occasionally, and another small number have started afresh in a business which is farm related such as vegetable and fruit vending, or the importation of agricultural accessories. Finally the study highlights the contributory factors which according to female Mġarr farmers - participants in the research, have turned them into a dying breed. This long essay concludes by offering a number of recommendations which can contribute to making farming a more attractive occupation, suggest ways how to increase the financial returns of farmers, and change the misleading perception that farm women are passive, non-active partners of their husbands.