Abstract

Kisu Simwaka, Stuart Ferrer and Geoff Harris

This paper assesses the impact of morbidity and mortality on maize production for affected and nonaffected farm households using difference in difference estimation technique. Results show that both
affected and non-affected households recorded significantly higher maize production during 2006/07
season compared to 2004/05 season. The results reveal gender discrepancies in production levels for
both affected and non-affected households. In general, the difference in differences in maize production
for affected and non-affected household over the two periods is not statistically significant. The policy
implication is that for the majority of households, prime age mortality raises the demand for labour
saving agricultural technology. Secondly, given the gender differentials in impact of morbidity and
mortality, there is need to overcome gender barriers to women participation in training programs in
crop husbandry practices and access to land.