Factors Influencing Sustainability of Tree Nursery Projects in Public Primary Schools in Matuga Constituency Kwale County, Kenya

Abstract

The study sought to examine the factors influencing sustainability of nursery tree projects in primary schools in Kwale County. The objectives of the study was: to assess influence of community participation on sustainability of tree nursery projects; to establish influence of training on sustainability of tree nursery projects; to determine financial administration practices influence on sustainability of tree nursery projects as well as evaluate how marketing strategies influence sustainability of the tree nursery projects in primary schools in Matuga constituency, Kwale county. The study used descriptive survey research design. The target population total being 500 people who benefitted from tree nursery fund in public primary schools in matuga constituency, kwale county. The sample size was 50 determined from a blend of stratified and systematic random sampling techniques while; data was collected by use of questionnaires. Data obtained from the field was sorted, edited and organized using statistical package of social sciences and the results presented using tables, frequencies, and percentages followed by a brief explanation. The study revealed that level of community participation in Matuga constituency was generally low. Training of tree nursery project team was generally low which could have affected ability to manage nursery tree projects effectively. Financial practices and general handling of tree nursery project finances was wanting. The study found out that minimal marketing was carried out and prices were relatively low. The study recommends sensitization of the community to participate in such projects since they uplift the people’s lives and change the environment they live in for their own good. Training that meets the specific needs of the people ought to be conducted before other similar programs are rolled out so as to thorough equip the community with the appropriate skills and gain confidence to tackle such projectss. There is need to be equipped with financial skills and that schools ought to intensify marketing for their products. There is also need to vary tree species in order to cater for varied needs of their clients. The findings of this study may be of benefit to the county government of Kwale as well as the national government in policy formulation in areas of implementing tree projects in schools.