The Centre for Research, Training, and Publications (CRTP), in collaboration with the Catholic Justice and Peace Department (CJPD) – Catholic Diocese of Kakamega, conducted a field monitoring visit for the Nurturing Environment Equity through Mining Advocacy (NEEMA) Project from 1st to 4th July 2025 in Kakamega. The visit was carried out by Program Officer Mr. Hezbon Awiti and Mr. Vincent Shitsama, the Environmental Officer at CJPD. The purpose of the field visit was to assess the condition of the trees planted during the April–May 2025 rainy season. The field report revealed the need for spot weeding, tree replanting, training on tree management practices, and community awareness creation on environmental conservation and protection.
The field visit underscored the importance of continued collaboration across sectors and stakeholders. It also emphasized the need to support both institutional frameworks and individual-led initiatives as part of a holistic strategy to restore degraded environments and promote sustainable community resilience. Furthermore, the visit highlighted the need for ongoing awareness and advocacy training, alongside capacity-building in tree management practices. Challenges identified during the monitoring included destruction of trees by animals and excessive rain. Despite the challenges, the communities expressed appreciation for the environmental management and protection initiative led by CRTP–Hekima University College in collaboration with CJPD – Catholic Diocese of Kakamega.