Abstract

Community-based organizations are increasingly recognized as institutional mechanisms for inclusive and regenerative food-system transformation, yet evidence on their gendered empowerment outcomes within Food System Innovation Platforms (FSIPs) remains limited. This study examined CIG members’ perceptions of voice and agency, gender-responsive institutional practices, participation, and empowerment within the Nakuru Living Lab FSIP, Menengai Local Initiative, Kenya. A cross-sectional survey of 129 CIG members was conducted using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and gender-disaggregated Welch’s t-tests were applied, with empowerment interpreted using the Reach-Benefit-Empower-Transform (RBET) framework. Participation was high (M = 4.21), particularly in training, meetings, and activity implementation. Women perceived stronger anti-discrimination mechanisms than men (4.32 vs. 3.79; p = 0.007). RBET analysis showed significantly greater benefits among women (4.56 vs. 4.20; p < 0.001), including income opportunities and household well-being, while men reported greater confidence in influencing governance decisions (4.39 vs. 4.04; p = 0.004). Women also perceived stronger long-term structural change (4.54 vs. 4.32; p = 0.025). The findings reveal a participation-benefit-power paradox: CIGs are perceived as strengthening inclusion and women’s livelihood benefits, but gender gaps in governance influence persist. Gender-responsive FSIPs should therefore complement participation and livelihood support with stronger mechanisms for women’s leadership, decision-making authority, and institutional influence.

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