Abstract

AKEREDOLU, M.. Women and leadership positions in the Malian Ministry of Agriculture: Constraints and challenges. S Afr. Jnl. Agric. Ext. [online]. 2008, vol.37, n.1, pp.27-44. ISSN 2413-3221.

This study is based on a comparative analysis of female and male employees in leadership positions in the Malian Ministry of Agriculture. Special emphasis is placed on the obstacles and challenges limiting women attaining leadership positions within the Ministry. It provides insights into gender and cultural bias within the Ministry. Leadership positions within the Ministry of Agriculture in Mali are male-dominated considering the low number of females in management ranks, and little is done to help women fit into these positions. This is especially true when female officials perceive that they make more contributions such as focusing on process rather than just results, paying attention to details, showing compassion and care in decision making, expressing willingness to "go the extra mile," being sensitive in human relations, and offering fresh perspective to administrative problems. However, the male officers claimed to be more committed than their female counterparts.

Keywords : Leadership positions; agricultural development; gender; culture.

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