Gender-Related Dynamics and Factors Influencing Transition to Green Economy Among Rural Communities Within the Forestry Sector

Abstract

The Green Economy, a methodology that supports the harmonious interaction between humans and nature, has been gaining attention since 1989. It focuses on alternative energy sources, sustainable agriculture, wildlife protection, and environmental policies. Kenya’s forest cover is below the global minimum of 10%, and deforestation is increasing at a rate of 5,000 hectares per annum. The research aims to enhance opportunities for green economy development in the forestry sector while minimizing challenges and to bridge the gap between Green Economy development and the forestry sector, address weak policy coordination among ministries and government agencies, and compare green economy statuses with related forest policy analysis. The research uses diverse policies to guide green economy practices in the forestry sector, aiming to interlink them and reduce conflicts. The research was conducted within nine counties in the Lake Victoria Basin Region. The results revealed disparities in gender participation across various preferred green economy activities, with women in rural areas being significantly involved in the initiation of community management programs; however, there was a notable gender disparity in the decision-making process, with women only contributing 20.2% compared to the male counterpart with 79.8%. The main sources of funds for green activities are from internal budgets of organizations (36.5%), businesses (19.1%) and contributions from family and chamas (15.9%), all geared towards building the green economy. The research reveals that the green economy reduces Kenya’s natural resource pressure, boosts economic growth, and improves business competitiveness. However, the proportion of different genders in the green economy is undervalued, especially in developing countries. Governments must act to reduce gender inequality in labour markets to ensure the benefits of the green economy are realized. In conclusion, the green economy presents new opportunities for women. Still, they may be deprived of the potential benefits unless governments implement structural reforms to reduce gender inequality in labour markets