Group seeks Benue’s partnership to tackle climate-related challenges – EnviroNews

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The Euphoria Climate Foundation has sought collaboration with the Benue State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare to address climate-related challenges affecting women and vulnerable communities in the state.

The foundation made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the ministry under its Renewed Women Voice and Leadership Project being implemented in partnership with Action Aid and Global Affairs Canada.

Mr. Terzungwe Bunde, representative of the foundation, said the organisation focuses on food security and women empowerment through education to promote environmental sustainability.

Bunde said the foundation planned interventions such as campaigns against indiscriminate tree felling, soil testing, training on organic fertiliser production and distribution of improved seedlings to farmers.

He added that the interventions would target mostly crisis-affected communities, with traditional rulers assisting in community mobilisation and selection.

According to him, the organisation is currently operating in Zongu and Ancha communities in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue.

He further disclosed that a 10-member committee, made up of 70 per cent women, had been established to provide women farmers a platform to discuss climate-related agricultural challenges.

Speaking on behalf of the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs. Theresa Ikwue, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs. Martha Edor, welcomed the initiative and expressed readiness to collaborate with the foundation.

Edor stressed the need for sustainable interventions that would directly benefit women and vulnerable groups across communities.

She advised the organisation to work closely with the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) for proper identification of communities requiring intervention.

Also speaking, Mrs. Eunice Tachia advised the organisation to register with relevant government agencies, including the Bureau for International Cooperation and Development (BICD) and the State Budget and Planning Commission, to ensure proper coordination of projects.

By Dorathy Aninge