Gender based determinants of coffee consumption for management of coffee production in Kenya

Abstract

Coffee is traded second to oil in the world, as it is the second drunk to water. Over six- million Kenyans derive livelihood in the coffee industry and is the fifth foreign exchange earner. There has been a slump from mid 1980s with production reducing from 130,000 MT to the current 47,000 MT. The rise of coffee drinking has been inevitable since its fast discovery in the early 15th century and is a key competitor of water and traditional drinks. Coffee drinking is embedded in curiosity, commerce, and civil society, it is also luxurious and relaxing with positive impact on reduction of several illnesses as it makes desert pleasant. Coffee intake differ between males and females; young and old, based on the reason of coffee consumption. Coffee business is either production or consumption with pride or disgrace. Coffee production and consumption has increased progressively yet the same is not being felt in Kenya. This study investigated the gender based factors that determine coffee consumption and production and utilized secondary data and information collected, assembled and summarized with peer review by the class team. Domestic consumption in Kenya ranges from 3-7%, which is associated with reduced production. There is a linkage between control of income, ownership of assets and decision-making in the home to the low domestic consumption of coffee hence low energy in production. Women face multiple challenges in the participation in the coffee business, which has influenced them to participate less in the consumption choices and subsequent motivation to increased production. Men need to support women to become landowners and encourage them to attend sensitization meetings through women groups or women only activities that offer confidence to take on leadership roles that will lead to decision on coffee drinking as part of the family menu.