Contribution of Fisherwomen to Households Income (Case Study in the Pasir Jambak Fishing Area, Padang City)

Abstract

The role of women in the fishing industry is crucial to household income in the fishing communities of Padang City. Although physically weaker than men, women have significant potential to contribute to economic activities, with their contributions often going unnoticed. The income of fisherwomen can supplement the income of their husbands, making the involvement essential in mitigating financial difficulties. Furthermore, participation in household economic activities helps to protect families from poverty, especially when the husband's income is insufficient. Cooperation within households is key to meeting daily needs and managing expenses. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the economic activities of fisherwomen, their contribution to household income and household poverty standards. To achieve this objective, descriptive with qualitative and quantitative methods were used. Primary and secondary data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations and documentation. Subsequently, the data was then presented in the form of statements by the interviewees, tables, pictures and graphs and analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. The results showed that the fisherwomen were engaged in various economic activities and made a significant contribution to the household income. In general, most fisherwomen households were above the poverty line, but some were below. Based on these results, the study recommended community empowerment policies to address poverty-related challenges. It was also important to target households below or at risk of falling below the poverty line to improve financial stability. In summary, fisherwomen played significant roles in supporting household’s income, improving family welfare, and reducing poverty. Governments were recommended to implement policies to address poverty through the empowerment of fisherwomen, particularly those from economically vulnerable households. Moreover, providing skills training for women in the fishing industry could help to diversify income sources and reduce reliance on marine resources. Community empowerment, especially for fisherwomen, should be an ongoing program.