Gender Aspects Influencing Adoption of Bioenergy Conservation Technologies, the Case Lower Eastern Kenya

Abstract

This paper examines the influence of gender in adoption of biomass energy conservation in Eastern Kenya. The region suffers deforestation, environmental degradation and threatened species as result of overexploitation of tree resources for woodfuel production. The government of Kenya and development partners has developed and promoted energy conservation technologies in the region for increased access to sustainable energy resources in rural areas geared towards achievement of sustainable development goals (SDGs) relating to increased access to clean and affordable energy, the eradication of poverty and environmental sustainability, climate action as well as gender equality and the empowerment of women. Despite these efforts, adoption and continued use of improved bioenergy technologies has been low. The objective of the study was to determine gender aspects influencing adoption of biomass energy conservation technologies at household and community levels. The study was carried out in selected sub-counties of Kitui County using a survey design. Structured questionnaire and thematic guidelinesfor group discussions were used to collect data from 192 respondents. SPSS and Excel were used for data analysis. Results revealed that, at 0.05% level of significance, adoption of improved technologies were positively correlated to income and awareness levels. Inadequate awareness on benefits of improved bioenergy technologies among men, biased resource ownership, cultural roles and responsibilities, lack of inclusive decision making and over dependence on men and subsistence farming for financial support by women were indicated as key factors influencing adoption of improved technologies. The study concludes that though women are culturally responsible for provision of food and cooking energy, high poverty among women, and lack of awareness on the socio-economic benefits among men affects adoption of improved bioenergy technologies. The study recommends financial empowerment of women, inclusive decision making and mainstreaming gender at all levels of project implementation for increased adoption of new technologies.