The Centre for Research, Training and Publications (CRTP), in collaboration with various community groups from Msambweni, Gombato-Bongwe, and Diani areas in Kwale County, successfully planted a total of 3,900 tree seedlings as part of the Environmental Advocacy Support in Extractive Industries (EASEI) Project. This initiative comes in response to the growing environmental challenges in Kwale County, particularly those linked to deforestation, land degradation, and loss of biodiversity caused by extractive activities such as sand harvesting and small-scale mining. These practices have led to significant soil erosion, reduced economic value of the land, and increased vulnerability to climate change among local communities.
The tree planting exercise was led by CRTP Director, Rev. Prof. Elias Opongo, and supported by local field coordinators. Participating community groups included New Boma Self-Help Group (SHG), Mwandurya SHG, Umoja ni Nguvu SHG, and Sisters to Brothers SHG, all of which have been actively engaged in promoting sustainable livelihoods and environmental stewardship in their respective areas. A diverse range of tree species was planted, including Eucalyptus, Casuarina, Whistling Pine, Bamba Kofi, and Neem trees species chosen for their adaptability and environmental benefits such as soil stabilization, shade, and medicinal value.
By empowering local communities to take part in environmental restoration, the EASEI Project promotes grassroots ownership of conservation efforts and raises awareness about the importance of sustainable practices in areas impacted by sand harvesting and artisanal small scale mining.