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Mid-Term Evaluation Report

Tharaka Nithi County Adaptation Project to Enhance Community Capacity

and Socio-Economic Resilience

UNDP GEF/SGP GRADIF-K Project

Prepared by: Alfred Nyambane, July, 2015

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS ........................................................................................................................... 1

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................................................ 3

ACCRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS ................................................................................................ 4

1. INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................... 5

1.1 Background to the project ................................................................................................................... 5

1.1.1 Funding Agreement ......................................................................................................................... 5

1.1.2 Purpose of the Mid-Term Evaluation (MTE)................................................................................... 5

1.1.3 GRADIF-K programme objectives .................................................................................................. 6

1.1.4 Main Tasks of mid-term evaluation ................................................................................................. 6

1.2 Evaluation criteria ............................................................................................................................... 7

1.2.2 Methodology .................................................................................................................................... 7

1.2.3 Consultant’s responsibilities and tasks ............................................................................................ 7

2. KEY INPUTS AND EMERGING ISSUES .................................................................................. 8

2.1 Input review from progress reports ..................................................................................................... 8

2.1.1 Status of Implementation ................................................................................................................. 8

2.2 Key challenges and difficulties encountered during project implementation ................................... 10

2.3 GRADIF mid-term review ................................................................................................................ 11

2.3.1 Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats ....................................................................... 11

2.3.2 Emerging issues and recommendations from progress reports and MTR ..................................... 12

3. RELEVANCE ............................................................................................................................... 13

3.1 Sector contribution – policy, programmes ........................................................................................ 13

3.2 Complementing roles and actions of other actors ............................................................................. 13

3.3 Community Contribution .................................................................................................................. 13

3.4 Regional Planning ............................................................................................................................. 13

3.5 Community Managed Development Fund ........................................................................................ 13

3.6 Alignment of project plans with County and National Governments ............................................... 14

3.7 Strategic planning ............................................................................................................................. 14

4. EFFECTIVENESS - DELIVERY OF OUTPUTS ..................................................................... 15

4.1 Log frame analysis ............................................................................................................................ 15

4.2 Evidence from the field ..................................................................................................................... 16

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4.4 Enhancing the role of the private sector ............................................................................................ 16

4.5 Constraints (bottlenecks)................................................................................................................... 16

5. IMPACT ........................................................................................................................................ 17

5.1 Impact assessment ....................................................................................................................... 17

6. SUSTAINABILITY ...................................................................................................................... 19

6.1 Caretakers and Community Facilitation teams ................................................................................. 19

6.2 Strengthening sustainability .............................................................................................................. 19

7. RECOMMENDATIONS .............................................................................................................. 20

7.1 Direct (short term) recommendations ............................................................................................... 20

7.2 Strategic (longer term) recommendations ......................................................................................... 20

Annexes ...................................................................................................................................................... 22

Annex 1: Data Collection Tool ............................................................................................................... 22

Annex 2: Participants Lists ..................................................................................................................... 24

Annex 3: Photos ...................................................................................................................................... 26

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The UNDP-Global Environment Facility, Small Grants Programme (GEF/SGP) awarded grant to

Grassroots Development Initiative Foundation-Kenya (GRADIF-K) for a project aimed at

building socio-ecological resilience and capacity to adapt to climate change, in Tharaka Nithi

County.

The goal of the project is “to build socio-ecological resilience and capacity to adapt to climate

change, in Tharaka Nithi County through capacity building of the community, county

government leadership and other key stakeholders to develop and implement climate change-

sensitive development policies, plans and projects supportive of poverty reduction and

sustainable development”. This project is being implemented through; multi-level networking,

adaptive capacity building and policy influencing. The rationale behind the project is to come up

with a model of an adaptive county, where both policies and practices are climate sensitive. The

project will further encourage diffusion of technologies that are essential in adapting to climate

change at the level of local communities, through demonstrations and onsite training and

learning.

The project specifically aims at enhancing community resilience to climate change through

demonstrating two technologies that can be adopted to enhance the capacity of the community to

adapt to climate change and piloting one off-farm income generating activities, i.e. Giant

Bamboo Enterprise. The project further aims at improving policy and administrative

management for climate change in the county, and increasing coordination of climate change

measures and activities across relevant actors in Tharaka Nithi County.

In regard to above GRADIF Kenya has been implementing the project for the 10 months. A mid-

term evaluation study has been sanctioned to gauge the extent to which the objectives of the

project have been achieved or continue to be achieved. The project activities have been

conducted well according to the project plan. All the key activities have taken place at the

selected project are at different outcomes depending on the technologies and activities

implemented. The Giant Bamboo seedling production nursery is particularly doing very well in

readiness for distribution and planting in the October/November rains in 2015. The Greenhouse

technology also is being implemented well with Kahuruko Welfare group. However at the time

of the evaluation, the group had new tomato seedling which were almost ready for transplanting.

There is tremendous progress in capacity building of the farmer groups, county officials among

others on matters regarding climate change. All the people interviewed had some working

knowledge about climate change. However, there is need to engage the people deeply on the

issues of climate change resilience, mitigation and adaptation. There is also a dire need to

educate the farmers and farmer groups on how to save or access resources and invest in

technologies that will help them cope better with the adverse effects of climate change and

improving environmental conservation and food security at the household level.

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ACCRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

CEO Chief Executive Officer

CDF Constituency Development Fund

CIDP County Integrated Development Plan

CSR Corporate Social Responsibility

EFA Education for All

ENRM Environment and Natural Resources Management

GEF Global Environment Facility

GRADIF-K Grassroots Development Initiatives Foundation- Kenya

MCAs Members of the County Assembly

MDGs Millennium Development Goals

MTE Mid-Term Evaluation

NDMA National Drought Management Authority

NRM Natural Resources Management

TAC Technical Advisory Committee

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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the project

GRADIF-K is a Community Development Foundation founded in the year 2006 to support the

improvement of life of disadvantaged and marginalized community groups in selected poverty

stricken and resource scarce areas in Kenya focusing more on Arid and semi-arid Lands. To

promote effectiveness, wide reach and sustainability of projects/programs, GRADIF-K works

with organized, legally registered community groups, structures and institutions of learning in

the implementation of age-appropriate, rights based, gender sensitive, cultural responsive and

environmentally friendly community based poverty reduction programs. All of the GRADIF-K

programs are geared towards contributing towards the Kenya’s Vision 2030 goals, realization of

Sustainable Development Goals (MDGs) and Education for All (EFA), all in contribution to the

realization of the wellbeing of children and other key targeted groups in Kenya.

GRADIF-K’s key broad areas include; Citizens Participation and Governance, Social Protection,

Economic Livelihoods and Organizational capacity development. GRADIF-K has gained wide

experience in the implementation of outlined projects in the past 7 years where in various

counties in Kenya with commendable results. Over time, GRADIF-K has developed healthy and

cordial working relationships with the relevant Government of Kenya departments, Community

Based Development groups including, CBOs, FBOs, Youth groups, development partners

including development agencies and nongovernmental organizations, learning institutions and

community technical resource persons in the implementation of all programs.

1.1.1 Funding Agreement

GRADIF-K and GEF/SGP signed an agreement which will facilitate the implementation of a

project titled “Tharaka Nithi County Climate Adaptation Project to enhance Community

Capacity and Socio-Economic Resilience”. The goal of the project is “to build socio-ecological

resilience and capacity to adapt to climate change, in Tharaka Nithi County through capacity

building of the community, county government leadership and other key stakeholders to develop

and implement climate change-sensitive development policies, plans and projects supportive of

poverty reduction and sustainable development”. This is being done through; multi-level

networking, adaptive capacity building and policy influencing. The rationale behind the project

is to come up with a model of an adaptive county, where both policies and practices are climate

sensitive. The project will further encourage diffusion of technologies that are essential in

adapting to climate change at the level of local communities, through demonstrations.

1.1.2 Purpose of the Mid-Term Evaluation (MTE)

The purpose of midterm evaluation was to establish the extent to which the

interventions/activities undertaken are making contribution to the overall GRADIF-K project

goal and objectives. The evaluator assessed the relevance, effectiveness and impact (if any) of

the interventions undertaken to date on the target beneficiaries. In Particular, the consultant

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assessed the extent to which the project is achieving or is likely to achieve the overall objectives

and goals, and; the overall effectiveness and the impact of the project. The consultant worked

with GRADIF-K project team implementation during the entire period of the evaluation exercise.

1.1.3 GRADIF-K programme objectives

The project specifically aimed to achieve the following objectives;

A. Enhancing community resilience to climate change through;

a) Demonstrating three (3) technologies that can be adopted to adapt to climate change

b) Piloting one (1) off-farm income generating activities, i.e. Giant bamboo enterprise

B. Improving policy and administrative management for climate change in the county,

through;

c) Building adaptive capacity of the county government

d) Advocate for formulation of a County Adaptation Strategy

e) Building community’s capacity to effectively participate in policy formulation and

implementation processes

f) Establishing County Round-table on climate change adaptation and mitigation

g) Designing a community based policy implementation monitoring and reporting

system.

C. Increasing coordination of climate change measures and activities across relevant actors

in Tharaka Nithi County, through;

h) Establishing a multi-level network of relevant actors and

i) Designing a climate change information & knowledge sharing platform

1.1.4 Main tasks of mid-term evaluation

i. With reference to GRADIF-K baseline survey exercises, assess the extent to which the

findings/gaps have been addressed during project implementation.

ii. Assess the relevance, effectiveness and impact (if any) on the uptake of technologies and

their benefits on the target beneficiaries. The evaluator should make efforts to capture key

indicators of progress.

iii. Identify key lessons learnt, challenges and make recommendations in respect how to

implement project activities and plan future intervention activities on climate change and

other issues.

iv. Establish to what extent the gains/benefits/changes achieved in the project are likely to be

replicated in other parts of the county/country and key factors that are likely to affect

their sustainability.

v. Assess level on community member/beneficiary awareness on climate change on the

livelihood and their level of adaptation and preparedness and level of economic resilience

in relation to climate change.

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1.2 Evaluation criteria

In accordance with the project proposal and logical framework , a Mid Term Evaluation (MTE)

has been arranged to assess what the project has achieved against agreed outputs and to guide the

remainder of the project in terms of its focus, direction and staffing within the current policy and

socio-economic environment. The MTE will identify key lessons and propose practical

recommendations for follow up actions.

1.2.2 Methodology

The Project Evaluation was undertaken by a consultant with demonstrated expertise, experience

and competences in Natural Resource Management, Environmental conservation and community

development. He demonstrated proof of previous experience in undertaking similar assignments

with recognized organizations/institutions in Kenya and beyond. The exercise was conducted in

Tharaka Nithi county targeting key project beneficiaries and other stakeholders. The

methodology for this exercise was participatory, ensuring reasonable involvement of primary

stakeholders in Tharaka Nithi County.

The MTE adopted a participatory methodology where the consultant, members of the

community, staff and other stakeholders actively participated in the exercise. Based on the

information gathered, the consultant drew a report.

1.2.3 Consultant’s responsibilities and tasks

Under the overall guidance of Chief Executive Officer (CEO), GRADIF-K, the consultants was

to:

Prepare the evaluation assignment inception report

Develop a detailed work plan for the evaluation in consultation with GRADIF-K

Design and develop data collection tools; interview guide/ questionnaires for key

informant Interviews and for the FGDs with beneficiaries

Carry out desk review of project documents, progress reports, work plans, results

framework, as appropriate;

Undertake field visit for meetings/interviews with stakeholder/beneficiaries and for

observations

Conduct informant Interviews with GRADIF-K key staff and beneficiaries

Facilitate the FGDs with selected groups/beneficiaries

Conduct data analysis and report compilation.

Compile, submit a draft reports for review, inputs and comments by GRADIF-K. Submit

final evaluation report and related annexes e.g. Field (Photographs) to GRADIF-K.

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2. KEY INPUTS AND EMERGING ISSUES

2.1 Input review from progress reports

This section analyzes all activities as reported in the progress reports. Emerging issues are also

discussed.

2.1.1 Status of Implementation

The planned activities for the project included the following:

Conducting a baseline survey on adaptive capacity for community and county

government

Formation of a Project Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) in Tharaka Nithi County.

Mobilize and distribute Project IEC materials to various project targeted groups in the

mentioned county.

Raise awareness on County Adapt project amongst stakeholders in Tharaka Nithi County

Design and operationalize a Monitoring and Reporting Framework on socio-economic

and ecological outputs/impacts of County Adaptation Project.

Demonstration of two adaptation Technologies

Sensitizing the county policy makers on climate change-sensitive policies

Establishment of Giant Bamboo Nurseries

Multi-level Network Formation and Meetings

Institutional support for project implementation.

Advocate for formulation of a county climate change adaptation strategy

Communities’ sensitization to increase community’s uptake of roof water harvesting.

This will go hand in hand with setting up the roof catchment demonstration.

Hold the Technical Advisory committee meeting

Train Women & youths groups on basic management skills

Undertake the Project’s Mid –term evaluation

Development and dissemination of Brochures’ and Booklets on Projects’ lesson Learnt

Printing out of final brochures and booklets and dissemination to various stakeholders.

The Baseline Survey on the adaptive capacity for community and county government has

been undertaken and report produced. The Baseline survey is a key output with clear gaps

on the level to which the community has been involved in climate change adaptation

strategies, how existing strategies and policies will impede or promote participatory

climate change adaptation information, data on the current status in terms of other

stakeholders (government agencies, NGOs, and Private sector) involvement in the

development and implementation of climate change adaptation for resilience strategies

and policies, data on gender integration in the ongoing activities in the climate adaptation

for resilience process, information on the level at which County ENRM development

policies and plans are sensitive to climate change and its impacts in the project area,

information on the current level of adoption of climate change adaptive technologies by

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the community in the project area, information on the capacity of the local community to

lobby relevant authorities on climate change adaptation and recommendations on ways

and means of enhancing their capacity gaps identified.

The Project TAC comprising of 12 males and 3 females from various

organizations/institutions was formed in October, 2014 from among key technical

stakeholders. The TAC developed its Terms of Reference (TORs) to guide its activities

and implementation is ongoing. GRADIF-K has mobilized/solicited various Climate

Change Information Education and Communication materials and distributed to various

targeted community groups for awareness creations and trainings. The materials were

sourced from various Public, Civil Societies Organizations and from the private/corporate

sector focusing on various topics of climate change mitigation and adaptation. These

have been very helpful in community awareness exercises. Various climate change

mitigation and adaptation awareness raising events have been held by GRADIF-K staff

and collaborators amongst other stakeholders in Tharaka Nithi County. More than 2,000

community members were reached. The awareness activities have also been integrated

with other organization’s projects activities on Natural Resources Management.

GRADIF-K designed and operationalized the project monitoring and reporting

framework on socio-economic and ecological outputs/impacts of County adaptation

project. These tools are assisting in the project management. Efforts have been put in

place to support the targeted communities to establish planned climate change adaptation

technologies which are demonstration sites/ centers for learning: One youth group (Jikaze

Youth Group) in Meru South Sub-county has been supported to put up a Green House for

growing horticultural crops. The other technology on drip irrigation was established in

January 2015 upon receipt of the 2nd

Disbursement.

In November 2014, GRADIF-K held a workshop for selected key county policy makers

to sensitize them on climate change sensitive policies. During the workshop, the County

department of Environment, Natural Resources, Tourism and Water presented to the

participants the policies already developed by the county to promote Climate Change

mitigation and adaptation policies. Action plans were drawn to guide the actions of

various stakeholders in the mitigation and adaptation interventions.

Two Giant Bamboo Nurseries were established in Maara Sub County at the identified

groups convenient to community centers where members can have easier access to

planting materials and information on bamboo propagation and management. The climate

change stakeholder’s multilevel network is already formed, Terms of Reference (TORs)

was developed and roles of the stakeholders outlined. Many activities and conservation

initiatives and campaigns have been undertaken notable one being the “GREENING

THARAKA NITHI COUNTY” which several actors have been mobilized to support. The

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Project has supported various institutional support activities including staff salary top

ups, administration and communication expenses which have facilitated smooth project

implementation.

GRADIF-K has facilitated the formation of the Climate Change stakeholders’ multilevel

network and the first meeting was held and TORs were developed. The network draws

members from development and civil organizations in the county, National and County

Governments relevant departments Provincial/County administration that ensures the

enforcement of policy implementation. The Network advocates among other things the

formulation and implementation of the county Climate Change strategy and incorporation

of Climate change plans in the overall County Integrated Development Plans (CIDP).

TORs developed by TAC includes: Policy formulation advocacy on climate change

strategy, Community mobilization and sensitization, Technical support for the TAC and

stakeholders, Policy reinforcement to ensure implementation and results, Technical

guidance for both internal and external, research/baseline surveys to establish gaps and

needs to be addressed, co-financing of project activities;, outreach programs on

information sharing, creating effective partnerships and linkages to share learnt lessons

and experiences; coordinate and integrate NRM climate change issues, support multi-

level networking initiatives, Trainings on environment and natural resources

management and monitoring and evaluation of field activities..

Various climate change IEC materials were prepared and distributed to various

stakeholders to enhance their awareness on issues of climate change. Awareness

materials were distributed through the groups’ networks and other stakeholders. Three

community sensitization meetings on climate change issues were held in three sub

counties at Kaanwa in Meru South, Tunyai in Tharaka South and Chogoria in Maara

respectively.

A report on the workshop organized by GRADIF-K for selected key county policy

makers to sensitize them on climate change sensitive policies is in place. The report

details the roles of various stakeholders in contributing to addressing the challenges of

Climate Change in Tharaka Nithi County. The policies already developed by the Tharaka

Nithi County Government in NRM and Climate Change are also outlined.

2.2 Key challenges and difficulties encountered during project implementation

i) Delay in funds disbursement from GEF/SGP/UNDP.

ii) Large distances covered to some project sites in difficult terrains and poor roads/

communication networks.

iii) Inadequate capacities (Knowledge and Skills) among some GRADIF-K staff directly

involved in Project implementation to effectively manage and deliver. This includes areas

like Gender mainstreaming in the entire project, documentation and data management,

lobbying and advocacy, entrepreneurship and livelihoods, business planning among

others.

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iv) Difficulties in mobilizing all the County Policy makers especially the Members of the

County Assembly (MCAs) and other stakeholders in one seating or event.

v) High expectations from the community members in the targeted areas.

vi) Inadequate water supply for Green House especially during the long dry periods.

vii) Inadequate funds to cater for TAC and Multi level Members meetings.

viii) Ignorance among community members who do not understand why Climate Change

Interventions should be a priority and want to maintain the status quo. In addition, most

climate change interventions are expensive and not affordable to most households in the

county.

ix) Weather patterns: The rainy season affected implementation of projects since most roads

are rendered impassable during the rainy season.

x) Low commitment from local leadership towards enforcement and implementation of

Climate Change policies especially those which are set to reduce forest depletion through

felling of trees, farming along river banks, sand harvesting among others.

2.3 GRADIF Mid-Term Review

From the progress reports and MTR, SWOT analysis resulted in the following. A list of

emerging issues was compiled and recommendations made.

2.3.1 Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT)

Strengths

Strong and organized groups

Flexibility in ventures to be adopted

High enthusiasm and commitment from

groups

Emphasis on: low cost, sustainable,

scalable solutions and innovations

Willingness and flexibility to

change/adopt strategy

Skilled GRADIF-K staff

Favorable political environment and

goodwill from stakeholders

Weaknesses

Poor leadership and high illiteracy

levels

Low capital base of farmers

Low capacity of groups

Poor integration of stakeholders

Scale of demand versus shortage of

funds

High poverty levels leading to high

dependency from community members

Opportunities

Open to adoption of new ventures and

technologies

Availability of various technologies

that can be implemented in the area

Resource mobilization through table

banking, savings or UWEZO funds,

CDF and Women Enterprise Funds

Threats

Retrogressive County policies

Unplanned activities-contradictions

with county development plans

Biased disbursement of funds and poor

prioritization of projects especially for

CDF

Poor infrastructure in the county-roads

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Engaging and creating

partnerships/collaborations with the

county government and other

stakeholders in finding solutions to

problems caused by climate change

and communication

Unpredictable weather/rainfall patterns

2.3.2 Emerging issues and recommendations from progress reports and MTR

Some of the emerging issues include:

i) Need to increase funding for the project to be able to reach more people in the county so

that there can be more impact.

ii) More focus should be put in building capacity of community groups especially in areas of

gender mainstreaming, financial literacy, project management, book and record keeping

among others

iii) Ensure that there is a permanent water source for the green house, drip irrigation and

giant bamboo nurseries to guarantee continuous production.

iv) Increase community sensitizations exercises on issues of climate change.

v) Mainstreaming Gender in the Climate Change Interventions Project.

vi) Build capacity on alternative energy, community based and gender related livelihoods

and protection of the river catchment areas.

vii) Strengthen working relationship with county and national governments to increase

synergy. Also work closely with the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA).

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3. RELEVANCE

3.1 Sector contribution – policy, programmes

Climate change has and continues to have serious impacts across all sectors in Tharaka Nithi

County. Focus on climate change adaptation mitigation measures for the county is a very

relevant initiative and continues to get support in the community and stakeholders across the

county. GRADIF-K together with other partners are lobbying for serious policy focus for the

county, to prioritize combating the challenges of climate change in the county.

3.2 Complementing roles and actions of other actors

The project complements the actions and activities of other actors and stakeholders such as the

county government. This is demonstrated by the increased collaboration and synergy created

between the various stakeholders and GRADIF-K. Some of the stakeholders have gone ahead to

support some of the activities of GRADIF-K such as capacity building and sensitization.

Formation of the Multi-level Network forum that meets regularly ensures that the roles of each

partner are fulfilled. The roles of each partner were clearly spelt out during the initiation of

network meetings and commendable progress is being registered on the activities being

undertaken by each partner.

3.3 Community contribution

To ensure relevance, sense of ownership and commitment, the community contribution should be

substantial. The community put in time, energy and committed land for the project activity. This

effort has seen through the success of the first phases of the project. In order to move further in

to serious business and commercialization, more resources should be committed by the

community especially the group members who are likely to benefit more from the ventures.

3.4 Regional planning

Community participation in planning is important and key to success in implementation of plans.

Part of the objectives of this project is to sensitize the community and county government to

engage together in coming up with these plans. Identification of priority areas of intervention is

key to ensuring that the most urgent and important areas of intervention are focused on. Further,

the harmonization of plans will ensure that resources are availed on time and synergies can be

built. Common activities can be planned and implemented at the same time to avoid duplication

of efforts and also save the limited resources available.

3.5 Community Managed Development Fund

The national government has established community funds that can be accessed through groups

or through the committees established at the constituency level or through women groups.

Groups have not taken advantage of these avenues to access these funds. These resources if used

properly could significantly boost the project and in the long run increase income levels of the

groups and ultimately the livelihoods of the people. The interest rates, if charged, are friendly as

compared to loans from banks and SACCOs. This is a gap that needs to be filled. Most of the

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group members cited lack of capital as a major deterrent to engaging further in the proposed

ventures.

3.6 Alignment of project plans with county and national Governments

Engaging and being involved from the on-sent of planning to ultimately implementations of

county and national government plans, ensures that project plans are in line with priorities of the

county and national governments.

3.7 Strategic planning There is need for the institution to develop a strategic plan that will guide projects and activities

of the organization for a specified period of time. This will ensure a more organized manner of

resource mobilization, planning and implementation of projects.

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4. EFFECTIVENESS - DELIVERY OF OUTPUTS

4.1 Log frame analysis

Activity Responsible Party Progress made so far

Demonstrate/promote uptake of

technologies that can be adopted to

adapt to climate change

GRADIF-K; TARDA;

Identified institutions for

demonstrations

- Completed

Piloting off-farm income generating

activities (Giant Bamboo enterprises).

GRADIF-K;

Identified WRUAs;

Women & Youth groups;

WRMA; TARDA

- Completed

Build adaptive capacity of the county

government

GRADIF-K; County

government;

NEMA

- Completed

Advocate for formulation of a County

Adaptation Strategy and lobby for

establishment of County Climate

Change Trust Fund

GRADIF-K;

collaborating CSOs;

community;

County government

- Completed

Participate in county development

policies formulation process

GRADIF-K;

collaborating CSOs;

community

-

- Completed

Build community’s capacity to

effectively participate in policy

formulation and implementation

processes

GRADIF-K;

collaborating CSOs;

community

- Completed

Meetings of Technical Advisory

committee with 20 Stakeholders

GRADIF – K;

collaborating CSOs;

community

- Done

Design community-based policy

implementation monitoring and

reporting system.

GRADIF-K;

collaborating CSOs;

community

- Conducted

Establish a multi-level network of

relevant actors

All partners - Completed

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4.2 Evidence from the field

Photos and minutes from the field (Annexed)

4.4 Enhancing the role of the private sector

The private sector can play a very important role in the project. Formation of the Multi-level

Network forum that meets regularly has ensured participation of partners in fulfilling various

roles. The private sector can equally have a considerable role to play in the project. Input

production companies can provide free lessons to the farmers or groups involved in agricultural

production. Efforts should be put into inviting the private sector in forums. This could well lead

to the companies channeling their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to the project hence

benefitting the cause further.

4.5 Constraints (bottlenecks)

Some of the major constraints that have crippled or derailed achievement of planned activities

include:

i) Limited resources and delayed disbursement of resources. Some activities in the project a

time specific (time bound). Missing the specific window for that activity will have dire

consequences to the project. This is especially so for agricultural based activities.

ii) Low capacity of community members to understand and conceptualize the issues of

climate change.

iii) Lack of sufficient extension services from the ministry involved to support the work of

the project officers especially on the technical areas.

iv) Poor infrastructural development. Roads are impassable especially during the rainy

season. Communication is also a major impediment to implementation of activities at the

interior areas of the County.

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5. IMPACT

5.1 Impact assessment

There were signs of potential impacts of the project on the ground. The group members and

farmers are beginning to gain fruits of their labour. The greenhouse project for example has

started attracting visitors who are interested in learning so that they can go and implement in

their farms. The group has embraced the visitors and they have taken upon themselves to train

other community members free of charge on how the technology works. A number of people

have started implementing the technology in their farms. In assessing impact of the GRADIF-K

project however, it was difficult to get clear numbers of the beneficiaries outside the group

members.

Group members have started appreciating the effect of climate change. The greenhouse project

for example was hard hit by prolonged drought which affected the production in the tomatoes.

This has made the group members to rethink their strategy. They are now planning to drill a

borehole and install a water tank so as to shield them from future water problems. They were

clearly caught by the uncharacteristic drought. The springs they depended on became dry.

More specifically, the following are some of the outcomes and possible impacts of the project:

There is increased community participation in natural resource management and

biodiversity conservation interventions by gender.

Improved conservation of the environment and biodiversity resulting to reduced negative

climate change impact on the fauna and flora around Mt Kenya region.

Diversification of alternative sources of livelihood which does not have negative impact

on Climate Change including enhanced entrepreneurship.

Active participation of community members and children in climate change mitigation

initiatives in targeted villages and schools.

Increased rainfall leading to adequate water in the existing rivers for both human and

animal consumption.

Good governance systems and enhanced capacities among CBOs and other community

groups who are effectively designing and managing Climate Change and related

community development projects/initiatives.

Reduced incidences of climate change negative effects on the fauna and flora.

Reduced massive destruction of environment around in Tharaka Nithi County through;

farming along the forest, firewood harvesting, timber logging, grazing, bhang cultivation

etc.

Existence of strong Multilevel Network to advocate for Climate Change mitigation and

Adaptation.

Enactment of friendly Climate Change policies at the county level.

Diversification and sustainable livelihood and increased farm yields including tea yields.

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Strengthened integrated community development initiatives that addresses natural

resources management and biodiversity conservation for realization of sustainable

development

Emergence of community centers of excellence in climate change adaptation and

mitigation as well as in integrated community development initiatives.

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6. SUSTAINABILITY

6.1 Caretakers and Community Facilitation teams

It is important to ensure that the groups are well trained to take care of the project activities so as

to ensure continuity. It is also important to have the group members to fully participate in the

activities of the group and build the sense of ownership. This calls for not only contributing the

time and money for the group but to also fully participating in the decisions and activities of the

group.

Gender plan which has been developed to mainstream Gender in the Climate Change project,

realizes that women are more affected by the impacts of Climate Change than men and so efforts

are being made to ensure that they are fully involvement in all the interventions. They comprise

the majority gender in all the community groups targeted by this project.

6.2 Strengthening sustainability

The following activities should be incorporated to enhance success and sustainability of the

project:

i) Activities such as community Participatory Learning Appraisal should be included.

ii) Efforts to help the County Government factor in issues of Climate Change in their plans

and budget allocations.

iii) Project implementation staff trainings on Monitoring, evaluation, documentation and

Data Management, gender mainstreaming in Climate Change interventions, lobbying

and Advocacy among others.

iv) More trainings on sustainable Land Management for farmers Group and Networks.

v) Seek for more resources to initiate additional/upscale Adaptation projects.

vi) Support digging up of earth dams and water pans.

vii) Support for women initiatives in climate change should also be incorporated.

viii) Training of community groups on carbon credits and alternative energy sources.

ix) Support communities to establish and manage additional alternative sources of

livelihoods

x) Form and enforce the implementation of the Charcoal Producers Association by laws.

xi) Support rehabilitation of riverbanks and protection of community water springs

xii) Increase access to funding sources that have farmer friendly interest rates.

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7. RECOMMENDATIONS

7.1 Direct (short term) recommendations

The following are short term recommendations that can be implemented immediately for short

term results/ outcomes.

Tackle the challenge of water shortage in the greenhouse and drip irrigation technologies by

drilling boreholes or shallow wells or constructing a water pan and installing water tanks at

the sites.

Continue building capacity of the groups beyond climate change, governance and policy

advocacy. Zero in in group dynamics issues, group savings, resource mobilization and

financial literacy.

Strengthen the capacity of the implementing staff to be able to handle challenges beyond the

project. Issues of Gender mainstreaming, group dynamics among other topics are very

essential in project implementation.

Collaborate with Government institutions that provide funds for groups such as Uwezo fund,

CDF, women enterprise fund among others, and link the groups to the institutions to boost

their capital and upscale their activities.

Encourage diversification of livelihood activities as a means of adapting to the vagaries of

climate change. This involves keeping animals both browsers and grazers while at the same

time growing different types of crops in the same farm.

Adopt agroforestry technologies that will improve livelihoods. Some farmers have fruit trees

such as avocado, mangoes, paw paws etc. others grow other fruits, others have tea and

coffee. Other farmers have opted to grow Grivellia Robusta, Eucalyptus spp among others

for timber and poles. This has diversified income sources and has also lead to improved

micro-climate in the area.

Encourage farmers to adopt climate smart agricultural practices such as mulching, improved

fallow systems, minimum tillage, zero tillage, intercropping, alley cropping, use of improved

crop varieties, crop rotation, terracing especially for hilly areas, use of Zai pits in the dry

areas of the county among other practices.

7.2 Strategic (long term) recommendations

For longer term recommendations, the following would be very important to consider:

Develop at least a five year strategic plan that will guide activities for the organization. This

plan will clearly spell out the path and direction of the organization so as to improve both the

livelihoods of the people and also strengthen the institution so that it can have a bigger

impact in the community.

Consider venturing into a broader range of activities to curb the effects of climate change in

the county. Implement a wide range of technologies that are suitable in the county. This will

therefore require very strategic partnerships with organizations that are well vast with these

technologies.

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Work more closely with the national and county governments especially in the planning and

implementation phases so as to reach out to many people in the county so has to have a

higher impact. Working with national and county governments will lead to synchronization

of activities hence cutting down of project running costs and therefore increasing efficiency

and ultimately the effectiveness of the organization.

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Annexes

Annex 1: Data Collection Tool

UNDP GEF/SGP GRADIF-K PROJECT

MIDTERM EVALUATION

KEY INFORMANT INTERVIEW/ FGD TOOL

Stakeholders

Community Groups- Youth, Women, PWDs, Farmers

Project Staff- Field Officers, program officers, Project coordinators

County and government officials-Ministry Officials, Local administration

Partners and Donors

General Questions

1. Have you heard about the Grassroots Development Initiative Foundation-Kenya Project?

2. For how long have you been involved in the project? What is your role in the project?

3. How have you benefitted from the involvement?

4. Do you think the project is still adding value to your life?

5. Do you think this project is helping the group/community? If yes, do you think it will

continue supporting the community? (especially the marginalized, youth, PWDs and

women)

6. What have you learnt about climate change?

7. How does climate change affect your livelihood?

8. What have you done (preparedness/resilience) or what are you doing to cope with the

effects of climate change?

9. What technologies have you been introduced to that have helped you cope with climate

change?

10. What lessons have you learnt from the project so far?

11. Are there barriers to implementing some of the things the project is encouraging you to

do? Is there anything that can be done to overcome these barriers?

12. What challenges have you faced/experienced so far in implementation of the project?

13. In your opinion, what do you think is being done properly? What do you feel needs to be

done better? What changes would you recommend with regard to running of the project?

14. What challenges is the community facing in the process of participating in development

and project matters?

15. What suggestions do you have for us?

Relevance

1. What technologies are available to your community for adapting to climate change?

2. Among the technologies, which are the most appropriate for your community?

3. What is the potential of Giant bamboo enterprise/Drip irrigation/Green house as a tool

for both poverty alleviation and conservation?

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Effectiveness

1. How effective are you in promoting and participating in pro-poor climate sensitive policy

processes?

2. Do you have the requisite knowledge and skills to participate in policy making

processes?

3. Have there been scheduled meetings for the stakeholders to discuss policy interventions

in the county?

4. What is your opinion of the GRADIF Project? Do you think it is effective?

Efficiency

1. How much did you contribute in designing your activity with the GRADIF Project? The

workplan? Budget?

2. What inputs did you receive from GRADIF Project in designing programs, developing

workplans? Identifying training needs?

3. What do you see as the strengths and weaknesses of the GRADIF Project?

Impact

1. Have you noticed any changes in your communities since the GRADIF Project?

2. What impacts (if any) has the project had in the community?

Sustainability

1. To what extent are the gains/benefits/changes achieved in the project are likely to be

replicated in other parts of the county/country?

2. What key factors do you think are likely to affect sustainability of the

gains/benefits/changes achieved?

3. What capacity building have you received through GRADIF Project?

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Annex 2: Participants Lists

S/NO NAME SEX (M/F) GROUP NAME PHONE NUMBER

1. Morris Mwiti M MariMugwe

Network 0727849123

2. Violet Kaari F MariMugwe

Network 0710774246

3. Charity Ndeke F MariMugwe

Network 0715275358

4. Doreen Muthoni F MariMugwe

Network 0712306573

5. Catherine Kagendo F MariMugwe

Network 0727157994

6. Rosebeth Muthoni F MariMugwe

Network 0712234721

7. Joyce Kawira F MariMugwe

Network 0729951259

8. Nthiiri Mawira M MariMugwe

Network 0708180208

9. Charles Muga Muthomi M MariMugwe

Network 0708180208

10. Gregory Mugendi M MariMugwe

Network 0720347525

11. Denis Mawira M MariMugwe

Network 0729150103

12. David Mugambi M GRADIF-Kenya 0728911803

13. Pauline Micheni F GRADIF-Kenya 0729570351

14. Layford Riungu M Kianjagi Network 0712409561

15. Rosejoy Kageni F Kianjagi Network 0731878505

16. Salome Nkatha F Kianjagi Network 0711898040

17. Cecilia Kanyua F Kianjagi Network 0721714175

18. Dorothy Kagendo F Kianjagi Network 0715575627

19. Idah Kathure F Kianjagi Network 0712533895

20. Sheila Njoki F Kianjagi Network 0715014775

21. Rose Kathambi F Kianjagi Network 0700841781

22. Harnet Karimi F Kianjagi Network 0703342708

23. Kawira Kimiti F Kianjagi Network 0700841782

24. Lucy Karimi F Kianjagi Network 0706478072

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25. Gilbert Njagi Mrithi M Kianjagi Network 0711512495

26. Bettyliza Kinja F Kianjagi Network 0726653550

27. Simon Kinyua M Kianjagi Network 0717776278

28. Loyford Kaburu M Kianjagi Network 0707587352

29. Dancan Kariuki M Kianjagi Network 0710676825

30. Albert Njeru M Kianjagi Network 0724074457

31. Jackline Gakii F Kianjagi Network 0717053133

32. Moffaty Kinoti F Kianjagi Network 0701096242

33. Alison Kawira F Kianjagi Network 0701205402

34. Alfred Nyambane M Consultant 0713701775

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Annex 3: Photos

Giant Bambo multiplying nursery- Chogoria

Giant Bamboo propagation in the Nursery

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A greenhouse for propagating and multiplying giant bamboo in Chogria

A community greenhouse managed by Jikaze Youth Group in Meru South Sub-county

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A Focused Group Discussion Meeting with Jikaze Youth Members during the Midterm

Evaluation Exercise