Male Seasonal Migration and Left-Behind Women: The Case of Guagusa Shekudad Woreda, Ethiopia

Abstract

This study was aimed at analysing the consequences of men’s seasonal labour
migration on left-behind women in Guagusa Shekudad Woreda, Awi Zone,
Amhara Region of Ethiopia. The study employed primary and secondary data
sources. Primary data were collected through a combination of qualitativeethnographic
research methods involving in-depth interviews, focus group
discussions, participant observation, and informal conversation. The
ethnographic data were thematically organised and analysed by triangulating the
various data sources to maintain the reliability and validity of the study findings.
The study's findings showed that husbands' seasonal labour migration has
empowering effects on the left-behind wives, leading to enhanced
decision-making authority and improved socio-economic standing. Furthermore,
the study indicated that husbands' seasonal migration influences the customary
gender based division of labour within migratory households. In this particular
context, the agricultural activities performed by the wives left behind expand to
include tasks typically associated with men in society. This, in turn, generates a
multitude of responsibilities and stress for the wives who are left behind. Overall,
the study indicates that men's seasonal labour migration has both beneficial and
detrimental effects on the women they leave behind. Nevertheless, the positive
outcomes of men's seasonal work surpass the negative outcomes.