Academic Associates PeaceWorks (AAPW), with support from the Government of Denmark, has launched a three-day training for farmers and fisherfolk in Ayama/Ogboloma/Okotiama communities in Yenagoa LGA of Bayelsa State. The training, which began on Tuesday, November 5, is facilitated by experts who will cover a wide range of topics to equip participants with knowledge and tools for climate resilience.
During the program’s opening, AAPW’s Program Manager, Utavie Jeremiah, emphasized the shared commitment of AAPW and Denmark to empower communities by strengthening their capacities to tackle the adverse effects of climate change on their primary sources of income. According to him, AAPW and the Government of Denmark are dedicated to helping communities lead better lives by building their resilience to climate impacts, ensuring they can sustain their livelihoods.
The training features lectures and interactive sessions led by seasoned experts. Dr. Authority Benson, a lecturer from the Department of Environmental Management at Niger Delta University, delivered a comprehensive analysis of climate change, highlighting its numerous impacts, including flooding, loss of biodiversity, and insecurity, and discussed key strategies for mitigation. Dr. Benson underscored the importance of tree planting, biodiversity conservation, and waste management as practical approaches to counteract climate change effects.
In another session, agriculturist Kingdom Obuza explored the potential of renewable energy in rural settings and discussed climate-smart agricultural practices crucial for sustainability. Obuza covered the three pillars of sustainable agriculture: enhancing productivity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and building resistance to climate change impacts. He also addressed specific challenges facing climate-resilient farming in Nigeria and advised on best practices such as cover cropping, irrigation, manuring, weed control, and soil and water conservation. Obuza further provided insights on sustainable fisheries management, emphasizing fish processing, marketing, and safety practices for artisanal fishers.
Mr Kingdom Obuza delivering a session on renewable energy
The kickoff session concluded with an interactive segment, where community representatives engaged facilitators, asking questions and discussing concerns about the topics presented.
The training, which will also take place in Okotiama Community in Nembe LGA of the state, represents a key step in building resilience for Bayelsa’s farmers and fisherfolk, offering them tools and techniques to adapt to climate-related challenges.
