The Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project on Thursday conducted a sensitization exercise for residents of Kawo ahead of planned gully erosion control works.
Umar Dahiru, NGO Focal Consultant to Kaduna ACReSAL, said the sensitization was part of the project’s Resettlement Action Plan (RAP). He explained that the exercise was designed to prepare residents for interventions addressing recurring erosion and flooding challenges in the community.
Dahiru noted that ACReSAL is a tripartite initiative involving Kaduna State, the Federal Government, and the World Bank, aimed at improving environmental sustainability and livelihoods in climate-affected communities.
According to him, Kawo, Tudun Wada, and Rigasa have been identified as erosion-prone corridors in Kaduna. “Construction works will commence soon to mitigate flooding and related environmental hazards,” he said.
He added that the Kaduna State Government, under Gov. Uba Sani, prioritizes the project as a long-term environmental solution.
Jibrin Magaji, the District Head of Kawo, described the project as unexpected but highly welcome. He said erosion and flooding along the river have caused serious problems during the rainy season.
Magaji noted that the intervention would create proper water channels and protect lives and property. He urged residents to rely on verified information from official sources and avoid rumors.
He also assured the community that compensation has been provided for affected properties, and that assessments would follow international standards. “Nobody will be cheated. The funds are available, and the government is ready to pay,” Magaji said. He added that the exercise is part of sensitization and revalidation, with property reassessments to be conducted by ACReSAL.
Similarly, Francis Tsan, Parish Priest of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, described the exercise as timely and impactful. He said community engagement helped allay fears, improve understanding, and encouraged collective awareness rather than fragmented communication.
Tsan 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,” he said.
The sensitization is part of preparatory activities ahead of the erosion control works.
