Historizing Gender in Household Production and Use of Cooking Fuels in Amuru District, Northern Uganda

Abstract

Abstract
This study examined the gendered historical production and use of cooking fuels in Amuru District in Northern Uganda, focusing on household gender involvement, specialisation, and division of labour in cooking. The availability and accessibility of cooking fuels significantly affect household energy security, health, power relations, and gender dynamics (Bamwesigye et al., 2020). This study used a qualitative approach and historical research designs. The methods of data collection used were participatory rural approach (PRA), focus group discussions, participant observation (ethnography), document analysis, and one-on-one individual interviews. Respondents included the elderly, young women, young men, and children. The major findings revealed that the primary cooking fuels used in these rural communities included firewood, black charcoal, crop residues, and kerosene. Gender plays a crucial role in producing and using cooking fuels, with women predominantly responsible for collecting firewood and other biomass resources. This gendered division of labour has implications for women’s time burden, health, and overall well-being. The study concluded by identifying challenges faced by rural communities in accessing clean and sustainable cooking fuels. The reliance on traditional biomass fuels contributes to deforestation, indoor air pollution, and adverse health effects. This study recommends the involvement of women in decision-making processes related to household production and the use of cooking fuels, including planning, implementation, and monitoring. This will ensure that their needs and perspectives are taken into account, provide training and capacity-building opportunities to women on sustainable charcoal production techniques, efficient stove use, and environmental conservation practices. This will empower women to participate more actively in the green charcoal value chain and address gender-based barriers by ensuring women have equal access to land, finances, technology, and other necessary resources for green charcoal production. This can be achieved through targeted policies and programs.