The government of Bauchi State has introduced a new “Right of Way” policy to control the movement of livestock and decrease land usage disputes in an effort to end the persistent clashes between farmers and herders.
Unveiled Wednesday, the program details intentions to establish designated grazing corridors throughout the twenty LGAs in the state.
The strategy was developed through discussions with farmers, herders, and community leaders, according to Bala Lukshi, the Commissioner for Livestock Development. The success of the program will depend on the participation of all parties involved.
He pointed out that herders frequently pass across farmed property to move their livestock, which leads to conflicts because there aren’t clear grazing paths.
According to Lukshi, the government is placing a premium on agricultural output and harmonious coexistence, and this framework is all about establishing order and minimising friction.
In addition to outlining routes, the state intends to support the strategy with public education initiatives and law enforcement actions to guarantee local adherence.
Additionally, Lukshi mentioned that this initiative is part of a larger strategy to safeguard crop producers from financial losses and refocus livestock development in the state.
Attendees at the meeting voiced their approval of the project, hailing it as a realistic way to address an ongoing problem.
If the policy is applied equally, farmers are willing to participate, according to Yusuf Sambo, chairman of the state’s All Farmers Association.
Pastoral leaders from organisations like Miyetti Allah and Kautal Hore have expressed their readiness to collaborate with the government in order to ensure the framework’s success.