Cameroonian refugees in Cross River get farm seedlings

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

By Akpan David, Calabar 

A significant population of Cameroonian refugees in the Biakwan community of Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State have received assorted seedlings.

A conservation group, Biakwan Light Green initiative (BLGI) with support from the Global Environment Facility, Small Grants Programme (GEF/SGP), made the donations to the refugees and locals.

The Executive Director of BLGI, Mr. Peter Bette said the initiative provides seedlings for homestead vegetable farming practices as farming season begins.

Bette, while presenting the items to the refugees, said the idea of the support was to reduce pressure on the community forest, provide livelihood to women, and enhance capacity through training to secure women’s rights and food security pool.

A conservationist, Mr Odey Oyama commended the environmental group for the initiative stating that empowerment would serve it purpose. 

He however encouraged the displaced persons to key into the programme as Nigeria and Cameroon share a complex and dynamic diplomatic relationship, 

Odey further explained that both countries are members of a regional organization like the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) which promote cooperation and regional integration.

Dr. Odiga Odiga, Board Chairman of NGO Coalition for Environment (NGOCE)  urged the refugees and some of the community members who also benefited to take of the opportunity and ensure they engage in all activities.

The renowned environmentalist assured the beneficiaries that the project would promote sustainable agriculture and agroforestry like planting of indigenous fruit trees and home gardens to enhance biodiversity, and mitigate climate change.  

The Town Council Chairman Mr. Joseph praised BLGI for  pledged his support for the project, noting that it would strengthen collaboration and foster relationships between the refugees and the host community.

Responding to the gesture, the leader of the refugees, Elder Ben Kachi appreciated the team for the gifts and support.

He also thanked the host community for the hospitality they have been enjoying since 2017 till date, according to him, it’s an ample opportunity that cannot be taken for granted.