Role of Gender Mainstreaming on Green Economy in The Agri-Food Sector in Kenya: A Case of Kajiado County, Kenya

Abstract

This study examined the role of women in the agri-food systems of Kajiado County, Kenya, highlighting the challenges posed by societal norms that limit women's participation in agriculture. The research aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of gender mainstreaming initiatives within the green economy framework to enhance productivity, sustainability, and inclusivity, contributing to the achievement of SDG 5 on gender equality. Guided by three main objectives, the study assessed gender mainstreaming in the Green Economy framework, analyzed green economy policies related to agri-food production, and evaluated the impact of these initiatives on promoting gender inclusivity. The purpose of this study was to assess the role of gender mainstreaming on green economy in the agri-food sector in Kenya, Kajiado County. The study found that gender mainstreaming initiatives in Kajiado County had a significant positive impact on the agri-food sector, leading to improved agricultural practices, increased productivity, and enhanced sustainability. This research area holds significant importance as it intersected gender equality, sustainable agriculture, and technological innovation, addressing key issues relevant to both local and broader contexts. The scope of the study was centered around the role of gender mainstreaming on green economy in the agri-food sector in Kenya with a focus on Kajiado county, Kenya. The study focused on farmers who were actively taking part in farming within Kajiado county. The focus on Kajiado County, Kenya, is particularly noteworthy given the critical role women played in agricultural production within this semi-arid region. By examining the effectiveness of gender mainstreaming initiatives and the adoption of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) technologies, the study aims to foster inclusive and sustainable development specific to this area. Beyond Kajiado County, the study’s findings hold broader implications, potentially informing similar initiatives in other regions with comparable challenges. The localized insights could be extrapolated to other semi-arid and rural areas where gender disparities and technological adoption intersect. By contributing to a broader understanding of how gender and technology influenced agricultural sustainability, the research supported global efforts to achieve gender equality and sustainable development, aligning with international goals and frameworks such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The research was grounded in Agricultural Innovation Systems Theory and Gender and Development Theory, employing a mixed methods research design that combined qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data were collected from 384 farmers in Kitengela, Kajiado County, using questionnaires, focus groups, and interviews, with analysis conducted using SPSS. The findings revealed that gender mainstreaming initiatives significantly improved agricultural practices, productivity, and sustainability. The study recommended greater financial investment in gender-specific programs, comprehensive educational initiatives, and systematic collection of gender-disaggregated data to tailor effective interventions. In conclusion, the study demonstrated that gender mainstreaming initiatives in Kajiado County positively impacted agricultural productivity and sustainability, with modern practices and women’s empowerment showing notable progress. However, challenges like inadequate funding and cultural barriers require more targeted strategies to ensure sustainable and inclusive agricultural development.