The Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project on Thursday sensitised Kawo residents ahead of the planned gully erosion works.

The NGO Focal Consultant to Kaduna ACReSAL, Umar Dahiru, said the sensitisation was part of the project’s Resettlement Action Plan (RAP).

He said the exercise would prepare the residents for interventions addressing recurring erosion and flooding challenges in the community.

Mr Dahiru said ACReSAL was a tripartite project involving Kaduna State, the federal government, and the World Bank.

He said the project aimed to improve environmental sustainability and livelihoods in climate-affected communities.

According to him, Kawo, Tudun Wada, and Rigasa are identified as erosion-prone corridors in Kaduna.

He added, “Construction works will commence soon to mitigate flooding and related environmental hazards.”

Mr Dahiru said the Kaduna State government under Governor Uba Sani prioritised the project as a long-term environmental solution.

The district head of Kawo, Jibrin Magaji, described the project as unexpected but highly welcome.

He said erosion and flooding along the river caused serious challenges during rainy seasons.

Mr Magaji said the intervention would provide proper water channels and protect lives and property.

He urged the residents to rely on verified information from official sources, not rumours.

Mr Magaji assured the community that compensation had been provided for affected property. 

He added that assessments would follow international standards.

“Nobody will be cheated. The funds are there, and the government is ready to pay,” Mr Magaji said.

He noted that the exercise was part of sensitisation and revalidation, with property reassessments assured by ACReSAL.

Similarly, parish priest of St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Francis Tsan, said the exercise was timely and impactful.

Mr Tsan said engagement helped allay fears and improve understanding and stressed collective awareness over fragmented communication.

He expressed optimism that the Gori erosion control project would reduce annual destruction, particularly behind church premises.

“If the government carries out this work as planned, it will benefit the entire community,” Mr Tsan said.

The sensitisation is part of preparatory activities ahead of erosion control works.
(NAN)