By JACOB ONJEWU DICKSON
The Christian Rural and Urban Development Association of Nigeria (CRUDAN) has launched an innovative project focused on Anticipatory Humanitarian Response in Katsina State.
This significant initiative is a collaborative effort with esteemed international partners Oxfam and Welthungerhilfe, aiming to enhance the state’s preparedness and resilience against drought in Baure Local Government Area.
The project underscores the importance of global cooperation in tackling local issues like food insecurity occasioned by drought. Oxfam, a global organization dedicated to eradicating poverty, and Welthungerhilfe, a leading charity focused on combating hunger and promoting sustainable development, bring their extensive expertise and resources to the initiative.
The Anticipatory Humanitarian Action project is designed to address imminent hazards from degenerating into negative consequences for local communities through the development of early action protocols to be triggered ultimately leading to improved food security.
The project will make use of scientific meteorological data as well as local information on weather and climate forecasting to arrive at effective anticipation models.
In attendance at the event were Permanent Secretaries and Directors of government ministries, departments and agencies in katsina state, the registrar NiMET training institute, the representative of the Emir of Daura, traditional leaders from Baure LGA, women groups, youth groups, International Rescue Committee and the media.
The CRUDAN Director of Programme, Mr. Tobi Salawu confirmed that this project will greatly benefit communities in Baure LGA in preparing for drought. In his words, ‘it will also bring together different stakeholders who are experts in climate, agriculture and water resources and will form a governance structure for the project in the state.
The project activities will include vulnerability risks assessment and impact analysis, assessment and analysis of existing forecasting and early warning systems/trigger mechanisms, capacity building sessions, community awareness creation initiatives on anticipatory action and the development and monitoring of Early Action Protocols.’
The launch of the Anticipatory Humanitarian Response project is anticipated to significantly bolster the resilience of Katsina State’s communities. By prioritizing proactive measures, the initiative aims to reduce the vulnerability of these communities to drought disaster, thereby improving food security and saving lives.
Executive Director of CRUDAN, Mr. Joseph Gyandi in his remarks, said that, “This project marks a pivotal step in our mission to support rural and urban communities in Nigeria. With the support of Oxfam and Welthungerhilfe, we are confident in our ability to anticipate drought and effectively develop early action protocols.”
Country Director, Oxfam in Nigeria, Mr. John Makina, said, “Oxfam is proud to partner with CRUDAN and Welthungerhilfe in this crucial endeavor. Together, we can ensure that the selected project communities in Katsina State will be better prepared to plan for addressing the negative impact of drought that may come their way.”
The Anticipatory Humanitarian Response project is a testament to the power of collaboration in addressing humanitarian challenges. By leveraging the strengths of local and international partners, CRUDAN, Oxfam, and Welthungerhilfe are paving the way for a more resilient and prepared Baure LGA in Katsina State.
