Abstract:
Tourism plays a vital role in the realization of the UN Sustainable Development goals
especially promoting gender equality and empowerment of women. This is echoed in
the Africa agenda 2063 under Goal 17 that underscores gender equality and inclusivity
in employment. The Kenya constitution and Kenya Vision 2030 recognizes the role of
gender equality and equity in promoting a wealthy and cohesive Kenya. Tourism is
among the social and economic activities enhancing wealth creation in Kenya. This
study sought to investigate the socio-economic gender issues affecting women
participation in alpine tourism in Mt. Kenya national park. The study was guided by
the following objectives: to assess the social gender issues affecting women participation
in alpine tourism and to analyze the economic gender issues affecting women
participation in alpine tourism. The study used descriptive research design, and data
was collected through structured closed ended questionnaires distributed to 122 women
participating in alpine tourism activities. 107 questionnaires were duly filled and
returned. Structured interviews were conducted to the officials of KWS and the leaders
of Mt. Kenya Guides and Porters Association. Qualitative data was analyzed using
content analysis and quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential
statistics. The study established that marital status of female mountain crew was the
dominant social gender issue affecting women participation in alpine tourism as most
guides, porters and cooks were single and for those who were married, majority of
them experienced challenges relating to balancing work and family responsibilities. The
study also established that there is wage disparity between men and women working
as guides, porters and cooks. The study concludes that the nature of the work in alpine
tourism favours women who are single which should not be the case and with
appropriate mechanisms in place this can change. The study recommends that female
mountain crew who have not joined any association can join so that the issue of wage
gap can be addressed.
