Browsing by Author "Kiama, Elias K."

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    The impacts of deforestation on rural women livelihoods: a case study of Kangema Division, Murang’a District, Kenya
    (Kampala International University, College of Engineering and Applied Science, 2008-05) Kiama, Elias K.
    A study on the impacts of deforestation on rural women livelihoods was carried out in Kangema division of Murang’a district in central Kenya. The reasons why on~farm sources of wood fuel were not enough, the impacts of deforestation on land productivity and measures that were employed to remedy deforestation were the main variables considered in the study. Data collection in the study included the use of photography, questionnaires, observation, interviewing and literature review. The study findings revealed that impacts of deforestation on rural women livelihoods included limiting their economic opportunities, increasing gender related conflicts, lack and shortage of water, loss of productive time and health related complications. The study also established that the reasons for lack of enough wood on their farms included, inadequate agroforestry practices, lack of financial resources, taboos and culture. The impacts of deforestation on land productivity were associated with increased rate of soil erosion and low annual crop yields. Measures that were taken to control deforestation included, training in agroforestry practices and energy conservation. The study recommended that, participation of both men and women on agroforestry should be encouraged, provision of soft loans through rural micro-financing, empowering rural women in women groups, provision of seeds and seedlings, promotion of alternative energy and environmental education to the whole community within Kangema division.