The Centre for Research, Training and Publication (CRTP) at Hekima University College continues to support community-led environmental conservation and sustainable livelihoods through its tree-planting initiatives in Kwale and Migori counties, Kenya. In August 2026, CRTP conducted field assessments to evaluate progress, observe the survival of planted trees, identify challenges, and explore opportunities for sustaining project activities. In Kwale County, the assessment focused on four groups participating in the EASEI Tree Planting Project, while in Migori County, the team visited four groups previously supported under the Advocacy for Environmental Support in Extractive Industries (2022–2025) project. The visits provided valuable insights into the progress made by community groups and their continued commitment to environmental protection in areas affected by extractive activities and other environmental pressures.
The assessments revealed encouraging progress in tree planting, with several groups maintaining established trees, planting additional seedlings, and exploring ways to expand their environmental activities. In Migori County, NEOA demonstrated substantial progress, with well-developed trees across several sites, while Nyatike CFA continued its conservation efforts despite increasing pressure from proposed gold extraction activities on land where trees have been planted. In Kwale County, groups demonstrated resilience by replanting lost seedlings, establishing individual nurseries, and exploring complementary livelihood activities such as poultry keeping, vegetable farming, fish farming, and seedling production. However, the assessments also identified persistent challenges, including land tenure insecurity, drought, flooding, livestock damage, vandalism, tree theft, limited access to water, and inadequate resources. These findings highlight the importance of secure land access, appropriate tree species, technical support, and effective community-level management in sustaining environmental conservation efforts.
Beyond tree planting, the assessments demonstrated the potential of these initiatives to strengthen community resilience, promote cooperation, and support sustainable livelihoods. Community groups are actively seeking practical ways to protect planted trees, diversify their income sources, and maintain their activities despite economic and environmental challenges. The experience of the Sisters-To-Brothers Group in Kwale also illustrated the role of dialogue, accountability, and collaboration with local authorities and relevant institutions in addressing internal conflict and supporting restoration. Moving forward, CRTP will continue to draw on these findings to inform follow-up support, strengthen community capacity, and identify opportunities for continued collaboration with groups demonstrating commitment and potential for impact. Through these efforts, CRTP aims to advance environmental conservation, improve community resilience, and promote sustainable livelihoods in communities affected by extractive industries.