Charcoal plays an integral role in the lives of the many Kenyans who lack consistent access to energy sources such as electricity. Gaps in gender equity within charcoal production and marketing are influenced by social, economic and cultural factors that dictate people’s lives in rural and urban communities throughout the country. Particularly, this study found that cultural factors pertaining to religion, human strength and land dictated gender roles. With recent legislation formalising sustainable charcoal production in Kenya, there is potential for a viable and stable charcoal market.
