Empowerment of Women Farmers in Northern Benin: Multidimensional Analysis based on the WEAI index

Despite their essential role in family farms, women farmers in Benin face limitations in access to resources and decision-making power due to social norms and structural inequalities. This research, conducted in agroecological zones 2 and 3, aims to understand how women access resources, participate in production decisions, and control agricultural income using a mixed approach and drawing on the Women's Empowerment in Agriculture Index (WEAI). The results reveal gender disparities, but also local dynamics that are conducive to innovation. This research makes recommendations to strengthen women's empowerment and influence agricultural policies. Key words: Empowerment, family farming, WEAI, rural development, Benin