By Bashir ADAMU, JALINGO
In a bid to strengthen farmer-herder relations, Taraba State has established innovative peace-building structures, while also committing to sustain the progress made under the COMITAS II Project of Fostering Peaceful Coexistence.
The "Contributing to the Mitigation of Conflict Over Natural Resources between Farmer and Herder Communities in Adamawa and Taraba States" (COMITAS) project II has come to a close, leaving behind a legacy of peace and cooperation in Taraba State. Funded by European Union (EU), Implemented by Search for Common Ground (SFCG) while, (IOM, Mercy Corps and FGN) as development partners; in Taraba State, the project focused on Zing and Lau Local Government Areas for two years period.
The key achievements and impact of the program (COMITAS II) in the state include the establishment of peace structures like Peace Architecture Dialogue (PAD), Community Response Network (CRN), and Community Security Architecture Dialogue (CSAD) aims to Fostered peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders communities, and laid a strong foundation for sustainable peace in Taraba State.
SFCG Country Director, Fatima Abubakar emphasized the importance of maintaining the peace structures established during the project's implementation. "These structures are now in the capable hands of the people of Taraba State," she said. "By formally handing over these peace structures, we affirm our belief in the power of local ownership."
Also speaking at the event, Governor Agbu Kefas, represented by Bishop Innocent Solomon, Chairman of the Bureau for Peace and Conflict Management, expressed satisfaction with the project's success. "The establishment of the Bureau for Peace and Conflict Management demonstrates our dedication to ensuring these peace-building structures endure," Solomon stated. "The state government is determined to consolidate the progress made under COMITAS II for the benefit of all communities."
The COMITAS II project has no doubt paved the way for the establishment of the Taraba State Peace Commission and the EWER (Early Warning and Early Response) situation room. As the project comes to a close, all eyes are on the state government to ensure the sustainability of the peace structures and initiatives established during the project's implementation.
This development is particularly significant, given the challenges posed by conflicts between farmers and herders in the region. By adopting these peace-building measures, Taraba State aims to promote a more harmonious and prosperous coexistence among its citizens."
Highlights of the close out event, includes the formal handing over Peace Structures and cultural dance.
Tags:
PEACE BUILDING