Building Bridges: Fostering Peace and Collaboration for Sustainable Agriculture in Makurdi LGA

In the heart of Makurdi LGA, Benue State, where farming and livestock rearing form the backbone of local livelihoods, communities have long grappled with tensions between farmers and herders. Competition over land, water, and resources has historically led to misunderstandings and conflicts, disrupting agricultural activities and threatening community stability.
Recognizing the urgent need for peace, #GoGreen launched the #Community #Peace #Dialogue #Sessions (CPDS) in Tse-Akpuku Community as part of the Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria – #SPRiNG Project supported by the #UK #Government through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Tetra Tech International Development Services
The first session brought together farmers, herders, community leaders, women, and youth for a frank and open #dialogue on #peaceful coexistence. Participants shared their lived experiences of past conflicts, their impact on livelihoods, and, most importantly, their aspirations for a harmonious and prosperous future. Through guided discussions, the community identified the root causes of conflicts, such as land disputes, resource competition, and communication breakdowns, and worked together to explore #practical #solutions for sustainable #peace.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the dialogue was the willingness of both groups to listen, understand, and commit to peaceful cooperation. Women and youth played a crucial role in advocating for long-term reconciliation, emphasizing the importance of #trust-building, joint community projects, and early conflict warning mechanisms. By fostering dialogue and mutual respect, both farmers and herders acknowledged that #collaboration, rather than #conflict, is key to sustainable agricultural and community development.

As an organization committed to environmental sustainability, peacebuilding, and community resilience, #GoGreen is proud to be supporting initiatives that empower local communities to resolve conflicts through dialogue. The success of the Tse-Akpuku session reinforces our belief that #peace is #possible when communities come together, engage in #honest #conversations, and take collective action for a shared future.

#GoGreenForPeace #SustainableAgriculture #CommunityDialogue #ConflictResolution #PeacefulCoexistence #ResilientCommunities