Kenya’s highly valuable charcoal sector and the many people it supports is at risk. Supporting producers’ associations can improve sustainability, scientists say.
Sustainability in the Kenyan charcoal sector has been discussed widely on various platforms, exploring production, transportation, marketing and consumption. However, beyond these valuable frameworks are the people whose incomes and livelihoods are greatly dependent on the sector. What role can these people play in steering the way to sustainability?
Charcoal is an essential source of energy for millions of Kenyans in urban and rural areas. In 2013, the economic value of the sector was estimated at KES 135 billion (around USD 1.2 billion in March 2021), making it a key contributor to the economy, providing significant incomes to numerous people and their dependents: wood and charcoal producers, transporters, brokers, wholesalers, retailers and consumers.