What it’s like to be a GIC Monitoring and Evaluation Officer
with a renewable source of wood fuel thus reducing pressure on surrounding vegetation and forest resources.It also accords the schools an opportunity to diversify their income through the sale of timber & non-timber products
In addition, the M&E officers mobilize and assist in conducting capacity building exercises for ‘Green Teachers’ at the three counties in collaboration with the KenGen Foundation, and environmental officers from the Kenya Forest Service, and National Environmental Management Authority.
Back at the office, the officers key in the data they’ve collected from the field trips. They resolve discrepancies and once they’re sure data are as accurate as possible, produce monthly reports that the project partners can use to plan interventions and adjust activities.
The work is, however, not without challenges.“The rough terrain is a real test between man and machine. Poor cellphone reception can be frustrating at times, but the real danger lies on the roads where speeding ‘muguka’ proboxes and sand harvesting lorries ignore all road safety rules in their rush to make their deliveries”, says James, with a forlorn look in his eye.
“The weather can also be unpredictable”, adds Julius. “I remember while distributing replacement seedlings in March 2016, an unexpected rainfall shower caught me by surprise, turning the usually dusty roads into muddy sludge that made the bike skid and throw me off several times!”
READ MORE: Nakuru County Next Frontier for GIC
The GIC project is entering its third phase, and will incorporate 99 more schools this year. The M&E officers are always ready to take up the challenge to ensure the successful delivery of the project.
James says that what he likes most about his work is outreach and knowing that strong, accurate M&E data can be used to upscale and improve the project. “I am very proud of this work and our role in such an ambitious project,” he says. “And it is very nice working to conserve the environment . . . we are making changes for the lives of the students as well as the community.
“As an officer, I’m proud to interact with people, and get to change their lives. I’m happy to help them change their behavior and make them advocates for a greener environment”, adds Julius.
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–Ernest Nyamasyo, Communication Officer
