Participation of Women in Environmental Protection, Conservation and Management in Voi Sub-County, Taita Taveta County, Kenya

Abstract

Worldwide, women have made a substantial contribution to environmental protection initiatives. Yet they have been underrepresented in environmental decision-making processes. Voi sub-County experiences the devastating effects of deforestation and land degradation. This study explored the participation of women in environmental protection, conservation, and management in the Voi sub-County, Taita Taveta County. Ecofeminist and participation theories guided the research and adopted mixed methods sequential explanatory design. The study targeted a population of 8631 women in Mbololo and Ngolia wards, in Voi sub-County. A sample size of 400 participants was selected using proportionate random sampling and determined using a Yamane formula. Data was collected through primary and secondary methods. The primary data collection instruments included; questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and Focus Group Discussions and secondary data collected through a comprehensive review of the literature. Quantitative data was analysed through descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS version 27. Qualitative data were categorized into themes and sub-themes. The findings indicate that only a small proportion of women are involved in environmental conservation initiatives. Women have not been empowered with environmental management skills. The study recommends creating awareness of environmental issues, and involvement of women in training programmes.