GENDER ANALYSIS OF MELON PRODUCTION IN IBARAPA AREAS OF OYO STATE, NIGERIA.

This study investigated the roles of men and women in the production of melon, Colosynthis citrullus a popular vegetable crop in Nigeria. A purposive random sampling process was used to select 120 melon farmers from the study area and data were taken using interview schedule. The data collected were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The result showed that men (68%) and women (32%) were actively involved in melon production, out of which 81% (men) and 22% (women) were fully involved in the production activities. Such activities as land clearing, planting, pod breaking, and seed washing were almost exclusive roles of men while seed selection, seed extraction and drying and cleaning were women's roles. The t-test also showed that there is significant difference (t.=1 7.65, t=2.35) in the level of involvement of men and women in melon production. The study recommends that adequate recognition be given to both men and women on crop production incentives.