Beyond bullets: PISE-P nourishes hope with ‘Food for Peace Initiative’ in Abia

Some of the food items distributed to residents of Arochukwu.

In a refreshing shift from headlines dominated by unrest, the Peace In South East Project (PISE-P) is weaving a new narrative for the region – one of hope, stability, and full bellies. Their “Food for Peace Initiative” marks a pivotal step towards nourishing more than just the bodies of residents in Abia state; it aims to nourish peace itself.

Spearheaded by Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, the initiative recognises the simple truth that “a hungry man is an angry man.” By tackling food insecurity, PISE-P hopes to cultivate fertile ground for peace to blossom.

The initiative’s impact is already evident in Arochukwu, Abia. Bags of rice, beans, and garri, along with cash gifts and wrappers, are bringing relief to families grappling with hunger and uncertainty. This is just the beginning, with plans to expand the program across the entire South East.

“A hungry man is an angry man,” declares Mrs. Mary Ikoku, Chair of PISE-P’s media committee. This initiative, she explains, recognises the crucial link between food security and peace.

“The current state of affairs in the South East, with the presence of unknown gunmen, IPOB, and sit-at-home orders, is detrimental to our collective interests,” explains Mrs. Ikoku. “This initiative symbolizes a new dawn, fueled by a leader who champions peace and prosperity for the region.”

Mary Ikoku (3rd from right) led the PISE-P team to Arochukwu.

Hon. Chijioke Chukwu adds his voice, commending PISE-P’s collaborative approach with local and international partners. He emphasises the Igbos’ desire for leadership roles and their confidence in Deputy Speaker Kalu’s ability to champion their cause. He also stresses the importance of supporting the Federal Government, recognising that no state can prosper in isolation.

More than just symbolic, the “Food for Peace Initiative” delivers concrete action. Bags of rice, beans, garri, and other essentials are finding their way to families across Abia’s 17 Local Government Areas, with plans to expand to other states soon. Each bite isn’t just sustenance; it’s an investment in a future where security and progress prevail.

But PISE-P understands that lasting peace requires more than just full stomachs. Hon. Mike Ukoha emphasises the need for a non-kinetic approach, stressing, “Peace is undoubtedly in our best interest. The disruptive sit-at-home order serves us no purpose.”

He highlights the progress of the South East Development Commission bill, a legislative effort to secure additional funds for infrastructure development in the region.

Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu (middle) is spearheading the PISE-P initiative.

Hon. Chijioke Chukwu adds to the chorus of collaboration, urging support for the Federal Government and praising Rt. Hon. Kalu’s tireless efforts towards peaceful resolutions, including the release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu. He poignantly voices the aspirations of the Igbo people, stating, “With our son in the Deputy Speaker position, we are inching closer to realizing our dreams.”

The voices of ordinary people like Deaconess Iroegbu and beneficiaries like Mazi Linus Okoro resonate with gratitude and hope. They recognize the transparency in the distribution and the potential of this initiative to transform their lives and communities.

With the “Food for Peace Initiative” bearing fruit, PISE-P paints a compelling picture of a South East where peace and prosperity are not distant dreams, but tangible realities within reach. By nourishing stomachs and fostering dialogue, this innovative project offers a refreshing alternative to the narratives of discord. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the seeds of peace are best sown on fertile ground, one bowl of garri at a time.