Understanding charcoal production impact on the woodland status is vital for sustainablernmanagement given increasing charcoal demands from growing urban populations. The status ofrna mixed semiarid woodland was assessed in relation to charcoal production in Kajiado districtrnsouthern Kenya. Status of the woodland was assessed from 72 circular sample plots and thernhistorical perspective established using maps and discussions with elders. Plots measuringrnO.OSha were assessed counting seedlings and saplings and measuring tree diameter at breathrnheight along altitudinal gradient /i'om the hilltops to the plains. Charcoal production processrnand efficiency /i'om traditional eat1h kilns were investigated by comparing outputs and inputsrnto understand loses.rnResults show that tree cover (woodland) has increased with discontinuity in species alongrnaltitudinal gradient. Tree density decreases from the hilltop to the plains with failure inrnregenerates especially at the sapling class. Charcoal recovery rate averaged 8% and preferencernwas for A. torti/is, A. mellifera and B. aegyptiaca in that order with basal diameter> IScm forrncharcoal production. Estimates show supply balanced with demand and points the problem ofrncharcoal production to the low recovety rates and divergence between state and communityrnforest management objectives. Reconciliation of state and community objectives, "boma"rnenclosures and "mbuzi" woodlots, selective cutting entrenched in enforcement and making ofrnenabling rather than restrictive legislation among others are recommended as strategies thatrnmay be pursued to enhance dty woodland contribution to sustainable development.rnKeywords: Dry woodlands, charcoal production, sustainable exh'actioll