USAID facilitate access to clean water for over 55000 farmers and herders in the Northeast region of Nigeria

Ibrahim Umar
Kanempress
3rd, August,2023

The Water for Agriculture initiative a project backed by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and part of the Feed the Future program has successfully expanded water access for nearly 55000 farmers and herders across Adamawa Borno and Yobe states. As a result over 1600 farmers in the region have embraced improved agricultural production techniques.

According to a recent announcement from USAID tensions between herders and farmers in the Northeast have been exacerbated by limited access to water and inadequate water infrastructure.

In an effort to address this issue the Water for Agriculture initiative which is being implemented by Catholic Relief Services and other partners has made significant progress in reducing conflict between the two communities. Over the course of four years (2019-2023), 21 water facilities including dams irrigation schemes boreholes and water retention ponds have been constructed or rehabilitated across the three affected states.

The Water for Agriculture initiative aims to improve access to water resources for both herders and farmers ultimately promoting better cooperation and harmony within these communities. By enhancing water availability and ensuring its sustainable utilization the program seeks to mitigate conflicts stemming from water scarcity and foster peaceful coexistence among herders and farmers in the region.

Speaking at the closeout event, USAID/Nigeria’s Director of Economic Growth and Environment, Michelle Corzine, said: “USAID recognises the importance of water access for consumption and agricultural use. Through our Water for Agriculture activity, we have increased access to water for smallholder farmers and livestock herders and strengthened the governance and management of water resources.”

Speaking on the benefits,the chairman of the water users association Zobi community said that the project will save them from going distance to fetch clean water and will reduce thier sufferness during dry season.

Agriculture and water play a vital role in promoting sustainable development and economic growth. However the adverse effects of climate change are taking a toll on these sectors impacting their stability and productivity. For over a decade the U.S. Agency for International Development has played a significant role in facilitating access to safe drinking water and improved sanitation for millions of people worldwide. Their efforts have benefited close to 60 million individuals in the form of access to clean water and sanitary facilities contributing to their overall well-being.