In its bid to expedite the implementation of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Projects in selected communities in the Federal Capital Territory, three additional Site Implementation Committees have been inaugurated forthe Ike, Tekpese and Rugan Bature communities all located in Kwali Area Council.

The FCT ACReSAL team led by Mr. Kayode Sanni, the Agric Officer of the Project. Performed the inauguration on behalf of the FCT ACReSAL Project Coordinator, Mrs. Caroline Opara.

Mr.  Sanni urged the committee members to approach their assignment with utmost seriousness, emphasizing that their selection presents an opportunity to serve and foster positive development in their communities. He outlined their responsibilities in acting as a link between ACReSAL and the local population, stressing their pivotal roles in raising awareness on ACReSAL’s primary objectives which is to enhance climate resilience as well as to promote sustainable and efficient use of land and water resources.

In Sanni’s words “The Site Implementation Committee will be integral in assisting ACReSAL’s project implementation work plan in your respective areas, ensuring that it aligns with the needs of the community and contributes to the development of your community. You will also be responsible for facilitating effective communication between the our team and the community members, ensuring that the project’s interventions are well understood and accepted by your people”
In her remarks, the Social Livelihood Officer, Mrs. Mary Ehionu encouraged the committee to involve women in their programmes, stressing that at least 40% of their activities should incorporate the women as enshrined in ACReSAL’s Project Development Objectives (PDO). Ehionu provided detailed insight into the Community Revolving Fund (CRF), which she stated would be granted to the Community Interest Group (CIG’s) at zero interest rates. She therefore appealed to the SIC”s to monitor the utilization of the fund to achieved the desired objective.

On his part, Mr. Olalekan Ifelola, Natural Resource Officer, FCT ACReSAL provided a comprehensive overview of the project, reinforcing that the multifaceted approach undertaken in the implementation of the project is to enhance transparency and attainment of the set objectives.

At the Ike community, the team’s first port of call, the Village Head and Committee Chairman, Mr. Usman Peter, expressed his delight on their selection, promising to give their unflinching support for the Project.

Similarly, at Tekpese, the village head who was represented by the Sarkin fada, Mr. Dauda Duniya expressed optimism about the project. He thanked the FCT Administration, World Bank and ACReSAL for choosing their community to benefit from the intervention.

At the Rugan Bature, Fulani settlement, Mallam Yahya Bature, who serves as the Village Head, welcomed the steps taken by ACReSAL to promote inclusivity particularly for the Fulani community which will give them an open opportunity to make contributions on areas of intervention as they relate to their activities.