Integrating gender in development of participatory forest management plans in Kenya: A 'how to' note

Abstract

Forests support the livelihood needs of forest-adjacent communities through various ecological functions. Forest management plans need to consider the needs of both men and women to ensure that forest degradation is reduced, and that communities continue to receive socioeconomic and ecological benefits from the forests. However, forest management programs can overlook the different roles of women and men in forest management, and the impact of gender norms on issues such as tenure security and resource access and use. Although women are more involved in gathering fuelwood, medicinal plants and food, they often have limited rights. They are also marginalized in decision-making processes and access to benefits. In addition, forestry tends to be perceived as male dominated (Evans et al. 2014; Kaudia and Obonyo 2007). Sociocultural norms form a significant barrier to participation and access to benefits (Marin and Kuriakose, 2017; Sunderland et al. 2014). The norms, such as the division of labor, prevent women from accessing resources and land and having ownership rights. This restricts their participation in decision-making processes.