Taraba farmers tasked on crop  preservation

Farmers in Taraba State have been encouraged to use farm guides as a proactive measure to prevent cattle invasion for the protection of their crops.The recommendationemerged during the 17th Peace Architectural Dialogue (PAD) stakeholders meeting, which recently recently held at the Grand Shield Hotel, in Jalingo.

The dialogue, supported by Search for Common Ground (SFCG), focused on the tensionbetween farmers and herders in the state. In their various submission, the stakeholders highlighted the adoption of farm guides as a sustainable strategy to mitigate conflicts and promote peaceful co-existence between farming and pastoral communities.

While emphasising the importance of government support in providing resources and training to help farmers implement these measures, they argued that such initiatives could boost food security and enhance harmony in conflict-prone areas, particularly in Lau and Zing local councils of the state.

The dialogue also identified advocacy and community sensitisation as key to reducing crop destruction. Traditional and community leaders were, as well urged to support awareness campaigns and encourage farmers to seek assistance from authorities rather than resorting to violence when conflicts arise.

Participants who shared personal accounts of crop destruction in their communities, underscored the value of dialogue and education in addressing the challenges.

While also urging media practitioners to promote the farm guide method and other conflict-resolution strategies through their platforms, the stakeholders stressed the need for vigilance and adherence to security protocols to ensure the safety of both farmers and herders.

If effectively implemented, these recommendations, the stakeholders unanimously agreed would foster trust, collaboration, and a more peaceful environment between farming and pastoral communities in Taraba.

The dialogue brought together representatives from the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, security agencies, media organisations, and various ministries.