Powerful Peace Initiative Bridges Farmer-Herder Divide, Builds Harmony in Adamawa

Powerful Peace Initiative Bridges Farmer-Herder Divide, Builds Harmony in Adamawa

Search for Common Ground (SFCG), a leading non-governmental organisation, has successfully handed over its groundbreaking peacebuilding structures to the Adamawa State government. These efforts mark the conclusion of an impactful project aimed at fostering harmony between farmers and herders, a relationship historically marked by tension and conflict.

Over the past months, SFCG has spearheaded a comprehensive peace initiative called Contributing to the Mitigation of Conflicts over Natural Resources between Farmers and Herder Communities in Adamawa and Taraba States (COMITAS II). Launched in January 2024, the project targeted seven conflict-prone local government areas (LGAs) in Adamawa State: Lamurde, Numan, Demsa, Girei, Shelleng, Guyuk, and Mayo-Belwa.

At the project’s official close-out event held in Yola, SFCG Country Director Fatima Abubakar Madaki emphasised the success of the initiative. “The COMITAS Project has addressed the resource competition that fuels tensions between farmers and herders,” she stated. Her remarks highlighted the tangible impact of the initiative on local communities.

Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Amos Edgar, praised SFCG’s dedication to peacebuilding. “Your efforts are a beacon of hope,” he said, affirming the government’s commitment to sustaining the structures created by SFCG.

Among the peacebuilding frameworks handed over were the Adamawa Forum for Farmer-Herder Relations (AFFAHR), Peace Architecture Dialogue (PAD), Community Security Architecture Dialogue (CSAD), Community Response Network (CRN), Common Ground Journalists Network, and Media Fellows. Each of these platforms has played a pivotal role in creating open dialogue, building trust, and resolving disputes between the two groups.

The close-out ceremony saw leaders from various sectors reaffirming their commitment to maintaining the momentum generated by SFCG. The Chairman of Shelleng LGA, Abubakar Abba, speaking on behalf of all 21 LGA chairmen in the state, declared their collective intention to adopt and uphold the peace structures.

“These initiatives have brought visible changes to our communities,” Abba said. “We will continue to work together to ensure lasting peace.”

The peace structures have been instrumental in resolving disputes through dialogue rather than violence. They have provided platforms for open discussions, fostering understanding and collaboration. The inclusion of journalists and media fellows in the initiative has also ensured transparent communication and awareness of the peace process across Adamawa State.

Fatima Abubakar Madaki expressed optimism that the local government and community leaders would sustain the structures. “Your Excellency, we hope the legacy of peace we have built will endure,” she told Governor Fintiri’s representative.

The success of the COMITAS II project underscores the importance of inclusive approaches to conflict resolution. By involving government authorities, traditional leaders, media practitioners, and local communities, SFCG has demonstrated that sustainable peace is achievable.

This initiative has given Adamawa State a unique opportunity to set a precedent for resolving long-standing disputes between farmers and herders. As the peace structures transition to local ownership, the focus remains on collaboration, trust, and the shared goal of harmonious coexistence.

By ensuring government and community involvement, SFCG has laid the foundation for enduring peace. Now, the responsibility lies with Adamawa’s leaders and residents to nurture and expand this legacy for future generations.