Photo by RET

Article by Jean Baptiste Gihugu, Project Communications Officer – EMEAA

KATSINA STATE, NIGERIA – RET is proud to announce the official launch of a transformative project aimed at improving livelihoods, strengthening food security, and fostering peaceful coexistence in the border regions of Niger and Nigeria. This initiative, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), is being implemented by RET in partnership with CCDRN and ASB. 

Project preparation began in October 2024, and activities will continue to December 2028. Our work in Nigeria will empower vulnerable youth and women, particularly those affected by displacement, unemployment, and food insecurity, by equipping them with the skills and opportunities needed to build sustainable livelihoods. With a strong focus on climate-smart agriculture, vocational training, and peacebuilding, the project is designed to create lasting change in the Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Jibia, Funtua, Mai’Adua, and Batagarawa in Katsina State, Nigeria.

 A Holistic Approach to Resilience and Empowerment  

In a region where conflict, poverty, and climate-related challenges have strained communities, this project offers a path forward. By providing market-relevant vocational training and supporting small businesses, the initiative aims to increase employability and income opportunities for young people and women. Additionally, through training in climate-adapted agriculture and livestock management, participants will improve their own food security while contributing to the resilience of their communities. 

This work will directly benefit 9,000 project participants including: 

• Women (60%) and Men (40%)
• Youth aged 16-35 (45%)
• Persons with disabilities (10%)

Key Focus Areas

1. Livelihoods and Economic Empowerment
   • Vocational training, apprenticeships, and start-up grants to enhance self-sufficiency 
   •  Business development support and financial inclusion for small enterprises 
2. Food Security through Climate-Smart Agriculture
   • Training on sustainable agricultural practices and the establishment of farmer cooperatives 
   • Improved access to resources for livestock management and diversified food production 
3. Disaster Risk Management and Climate Resilience
   • Strengthening community capacity to adapt to environmental and economic shocks 
4. Peacebuilding and Social Cohesion
   • Establishing conflict mediation committees, life skills training, and peace initiatives 
   • Promoting dialogue between communities, including internally displaced persons, refugees, and host populations 

Photo by RET

A Collaborative Effort for Sustainable Impact

The project launch brought together key stakeholders, including government ministries, local authorities, and representatives from the target LGAs, alongside the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor of Katsina on Victims of Banditry and IDPs, SSA to the Governor on Persons with Special Needs, and teams from CCDRN and RET. Their collective commitment underscores the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in fostering resilience, economic empowerment, and social stability. 

Looking Ahead

By the end of this project, we envision a future where young people and women in these border regions are self-sufficient and leaders in their communities. Their newfound skills and economic independence will strengthen local economies, while peacebuilding initiatives will help rebuild trust and foster long-term stability.

We look forward to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure the project’s success. Stay tuned for updates as we work towards building a more resilient and economically empowered future for youth and women in Katsina State. 

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