Traditional rulers across Gusau and Bungudu Local Government Areas of Zamfara State have commended the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for donating 120 Android phones and power banks to members of Community Peace and Resilience Committees (CPRCs) and community contact persons.
The intervention is aimed at improving grassroots peacebuilding efforts, strengthening early warning systems, and enhancing conflict prevention mechanisms in communities affected by insecurity.
IOM Distributes 120 Phones and Power Banks in Zamfara
The distribution ceremony, held in Gusau, brought together district heads, members of Community Peace and Resilience Committees, contact persons, and other stakeholders involved in community peace initiatives.
According to officials at the event, the communication devices will improve coordination, information sharing, and rapid communication among committee members operating in several districts, including Damba, Madawaki, Mayana, Gada Biyu, Kotarkwashi, Gada, Gulluba, and Sankalawa.
The officials explained that the Android phones would support the reporting of Early Warning and Early Response (EWER) incidents, especially conflicts involving farmers and herders, as well as other emerging security threats.
By enabling faster communication, the devices are expected to improve timely interventions, reduce tensions, and support peaceful coexistence among communities.
Traditional Rulers Describe Intervention as Timely
Speaking on behalf of the traditional institutions, Chairman of the Community Peace and Resilience Committee and District Head of Madawaki Ward, Alhaji Dahiru Shehu, described the donation as a significant step toward strengthening community-based peace initiatives.
He noted that access to communication devices would improve the operational efficiency of local peace committees and enhance early warning systems in rural communities.
According to him, the support would further empower residents to engage in dialogue, peacefully resolve disputes, and prevent minor disagreements from escalating into larger conflicts.
Alhaji Shehu also expressed gratitude for the continued support toward peacebuilding efforts in Zamfara, assuring that beneficiaries would make effective use of the devices to sustain peace and stability in their communities.
Boosting Community Resilience Across Zamfara and Katsina
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen grassroots peacebuilding, improve social cohesion, and build resilience in conflict-affected communities across Zamfara and Katsina states.
Stakeholders believe that stronger communication networks at the community level will play an important role in addressing security challenges, promoting trust among residents, and supporting long-term peace in vulnerable areas.
