L-PRESS Launches Training to Resolve Farmer-Herder Conflicts

The Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRESS) initiated a training program in Sokoto State aimed at reducing farmer-herder conflicts by educating 110 key community actors on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms. The event, organized in partnership with Khadilad Support Services, included traditional rulers, pastoralists, crop farmers, host communities, and government officials.

Mr. Surajo Abubakar, the state Project Coordinator of L-PRESS, stated that the training would equip participants with tools for early warning, dialogue facilitation, mediation, and conciliation to prevent disputes from escalating into violence. He emphasized that sustainable peace requires the involvement of various stakeholders, including farmers, herders, traditional institutions, local government councils, security agencies, and civil society organizations.

Alhaji Bello Wamakko, the state Commissioner for Livestock and Fisheries Development, reiterated the government's commitment to livestock production through investments in infrastructure and support for pastoralists. Alhaji Bello Abdulrauf, the District Head of Bodinga, acknowledged the training's timeliness for enhancing dispute management.