2nd Edition of Public Health World Conference (PHWC) 2026

Abstract

This study seeks to generate empirical evidence on the health, social, and economic risks faced by women engaged in rice milling activities in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Rice milling is a major livelihood source in the state, employing thousands of women in largely informal and semi-mechanized settings characterized by high exposure to dust, noise, heavy manual labor, and unsafe machinery. Using a mixed-method research design, the study will be conducted across four major rice mill clusters Abakaliki, Ikwo, Oso Edda, and Izzi covering the three Senatorial Zones of Ebonyi State. Quantitative data will be collected through structured questionnaires, while qualitative insights will be generated through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with women workers and selected family members. Data will be analyzed using E-View (2020) and NVivo 14 Pro. The project will assess the types and prevalence of occupational hazards, determine workers’ awareness of health and safety risks, examine socio-economic obstacles, and evaluate access to skill acquisition opportunities. Findings will be disseminated through policy briefs, stakeholder workshops, academic publications, and community feedback sessions. The study is expected to inform gender-responsive occupational health policies, improve workplace safety practices, promote skill development, and contribute to healthier, more productive, and more equitable rice processing systems in Ebonyi State.