The Governor of Katsina state, Dr. Dikko Umar Radda has described the Community Livelihood Project (CLP) launched by the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP)- Nigeria in the state as novel and one that will help address the challenges of insecurity, gender imbalance and the problem of food security and promote peacebuilding in the north west part of the country.

The Governor, who spoke during the launch of the CLP in the state capital, said such bold efforts by organisations and NGOs are needed to assist the government in restoring hope and confidence in the minds of the people following years of devastating human induced disasters.

According to him, addressing the issues of food insecurity, conflicts and the promotion of gender equality need the support of spirited individuals, corporate organisations and advocacy groups like WANEP to help bring them to the front burner.

He commended the Leadership of WANEP and the management for their foresight in bringing succor to the downtrodden in the societies and described the over two decades of work in conflicts prevention and management by the organization in Nigeria as incomparable.

Speaking at the event, WANEP-Nigeria National Network Coordinator, Dr. Bridget Osakwe affirmed that the North-West region of Nigeria has been exposed to multiple security challenges with devastating implications for human and food security.

She explained that the insecurity in the region continues to hamper food security and economic growth while sources of livelihood have been disrupted with affected residents, especially women and other vulnerable groups at the risk of radicalization, criminal recruitment, and sexual exploitations.

The WANEP boss said by providing targeted support, the body aspires to create a transformative impact, uplifting communities and fostering sustainable development in the areas.

Dr. Bridget, while commending the state government for the support and the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hajia Zainab Musa Musawa for hosting the novel event added that a significant number of Katsina’s population are involved in agriculture, with women playing critical roles in the agricultural value chain.

She said “They work in various sectors of agriculture, including production, processing, and marketing. Empowering women in agriculture is indeed critical for achieving sustainable development and food security.

“WANEP-Nigeria in line with our strategic vision and long-term commitment of creating an enabling environment for developing mechanisms geared towards promoting peace has been involved in grassroots initiatives centered on building community resilience. This comprehensive initiative ‘Strengthening Community Livelihoods for Peace’  is funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

“Let me reiterate once again, that the cornerstone of this intervention is the focus on the agricultural value chain, including the provision of fertilizers and farming equipment and tools. This intervention is designed to increase agricultural productivity, ensure food security and income generation for both individuals and cooperatives.

“As we embark on this journey to enhance livelihoods in Katsina State, we anticipate a ripple effect of positive change. By fostering community empowerment, improving economic opportunities, and promoting gender-inclusive initiatives, this intervention aims to create a sustainable and resilient future for the people of Katsina State and Nigeria at large” the WANEP boss affirmed.

The event also had in attendance the State’s Commissioner for Women Affairs and her counterpart in the Ministry of Health as well as top government officials and women groups and politicians from across the state.