By Terna Chikpa, Jalingo
Stakeholders at the just concluded farmers/herders stakeholders dialogue for peace development and social cohesion, have urged government and development partners to support initiatives promoting collaboration to boost agricultural production.
This was part of resolution reached at the end of the farmers/herders stakeholders dialogue for peace development and social cohesion, organised by Foundation for Peace Hope and Conflict Management, Nigeria, held in Wukari Taraba State.
The stakeholders recommended, the implementation of policies supporting sustainable agriculture and pastoralism, establishment of farmers/herders cooperatives for joint economic activities, development of community-led early warning systems for conflict prevention and the provision of resources for capacity building and conflict resolution.
The stakeholders also resolved that, regular dialogue platforms for farmers and herders to foster mutual understanding be establish to prevent conflicts, and peacefully resolve disputes.
“At the end of farmers/herders stakeholders dialogue for peace development and social cohesion, organized by Foundation for peace Hope and conflict management (FPHCM)-Nigeria, held in Wukari Taraba state, stakeholders observed that conflicts has lead to insecurity, criminality, and has hamper development in areas such as health and education.
“Stakeholders urged government and development partners to Support initiatives promoting farmers/herders collaboration to boost Agricultural production. They encouraged tolerance, good communication, and honesty to save the future of Nigeria economy in agriculture.
“Stakeholders resolved that increased dialogue, improved communication, and effective conflict management strategies to promote peace and food security will impact positively in ending the farmers/herders crisis.
“Stakeholders urged government to develop and strengthen local conflict resolution mechanisms to address disputes promptly and effectively. Implement sustainable agricultural practices, conserve water, and protect biodiversity to ensure equitable resource utilization.
“Provide training and capacity-building programs for farmers and herders on climate-resilient agriculture, pastoralism, and business management. Enhance access to finance, markets, and technology for farmers and herders to improve livelihoods.
“Possible efforts be make to promote active participation of youth and women in agricultural development and decision-making processes,” the stakeholders recommended.
While reaffirming commitment to peaceful co-existence, sustainable livelihoods, and food security, the stakeholders pledged to work together for possible implementation of resolutions and recommendations made at the farmers/herders stakeholders dialogue for peace development and social cohesion meeting, and encouraged private sector to invest in Agriculture development.
