Farmers, herders embrace peace as project closes in Kaduna

Farmers and herders in Southern Kaduna have reported improved relations and reduced conflicts following the implementation of the LifeMile Project by the Christian Rural and Urban Development Association of Nigeria (CRUDAN), with support from TETRATEC under the SPRiNG programme. The project covered Kpuyai, Chenchuk, and Mifi Attakar communities in Zango Kataf and Kaura Local Government […]

Farmers and herders in Southern Kaduna have reported improved relations and reduced conflicts following the implementation of the LifeMile Project by the Christian Rural and Urban Development Association of Nigeria (CRUDAN), with support from TETRATEC under the SPRiNG programme.

The project covered Kpuyai, Chenchuk, and Mifi Attakar communities in Zango Kataf and Kaura Local Government Areas, focusing on strengthening resilience, improving farm security, and promoting peaceful coexistence through dialogue, inclusive participation, and eco-friendly live fencing methods.

The project close-out meeting was declared open with opening remarks by the Executive Director of CRUDAN, Mr. Joseph Gyande, who commended stakeholders for their support and belief since the project’s inception.

Speaking at the event, the Project Coordinator, Michael Agon, said the initiative had significantly strengthened trust and cooperation among farmers and herders in the benefiting communities.

Agon explained that the project adopted a holistic approach to peacebuilding, combining practical agricultural solutions with dialogue-driven conflict resolution and peacebuilding approaches.

“We focused not just on preventing crop destruction, but on empowering communities to manage resources collaboratively, understand each other’s perspectives, and take ownership of solutions,” he said.

Also speaking, Mr. Hosea Daniel, who represented the Chairman of Zango Kataf Local Government Area, commended the initiative for promoting dialogue and collaboration among previously divided groups.

Daniel said the project had contributed significantly to improved social cohesion and a reduction in conflicts in the area.

In his remarks, the Agwam Bajju, Mr. Luka Yabwat, described the project as a timely intervention that had restored mutual understanding between farmers and herders.

“This initiative has reduced tension in our communities and strengthened unity among our people,” he said.

Some beneficiaries also shared their experiences.

A farmer in Kpuyai community, Mr. Yohanna Danladi, said the live fencing method had helped protect his crops from destruction.

“Before now, we recorded frequent losses due to grazing cattle, but with this method, our farms are safer and our yields have improved,” he said.

Similarly, a herder from Chenchuk community, Malam Musa Abdullahi, said the project had helped build better communication between herders and farmers.

“We now sit together to discuss issues and find solutions without conflict, as this project has brought peace to our community,” he said.

Also, a youth participant from Mifi Attakar, Miss Grace Luka, said the initiative had empowered young people to serve as agents of peace.

“We were trained to promote dialogue and resolve conflicts. Now, we are actively contributing to peace in our communities,” she said.

Participants, including representatives of farmer groups, herders, Miyetti Allah associations, and government agencies, reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining peace and building on the project’s achievements.

Key outcomes highlighted at the meeting included increased youth participation in peacebuilding efforts, strengthened collaboration among traditional and government institutions, and wider acceptance of live fencing as a conflict mitigation strategy.

Stakeholders expressed appreciation to all partners and contributors, noting that the LifeMile Project not only achieved its objectives but also laid a solid foundation for future interventions.

They emphasised the need to sustain the momentum generated by the project to ensure lasting peace and development in the communities.

As the project winds down, its legacy is expected to endure through empowered communities, strengthened partnerships, and innovative approaches to peacebuilding and resilience in Southern Kaduna.