Context
In Plateau State in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, disputes between farmers and cattle herders over land and water have repeatedly fuelled violence, undermining livelihoods and eroding trust within communities. Violence not only disrupts daily life but also weakens prospects for cooperation between groups. At the same time, competition over fields, grazing areas and water points places increasing pressure on resources. The ongoing tensions make it difficult to prevent new outbreaks of conflict and highlight the urgent need for more effective approaches to peaceful dispute resolution.
Objective
Violent disputes over resources between farmers and herders in Plateau State have been reduced, creating better conditions for peaceful coexistence and livelihoods.
Approach
This project cooperates with government and civil society partners to address farmer-herder conflicts in Plateau State. It:
• Supports the Plateau Peace Building Agency (PPBA) to coordinate peacebuilding efforts, develop mediation tools, and facilitate dialogue in communities and wards,
• Provides training in farming and livestock practices, including pasture management, feed production, manure processing, cattle breeding, dairy hygiene, milk processing, and veterinary care to combat diseases such as brucellosis and tuberculosis,
• Improves local infrastructure by developing markets, milk collection points, and processing centres through cash-for-work schemes,
• Monitors results with control groups and surveys to assess impact and adapt activities where needed.
