By Converse Blog
In a bid to alleviate the strain on mangrove forests in Cross River State and promote sustainable practices, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), within the framework of the United kIngdom (UK) funded Partnering for Accelerated Climate Transitions (PACT) project, has commenced the distribution of aquaculture livelihood kits and energy-efficient cook stoves to local beneficiaries.
During the launch events held at Calabar Municipal and Akpabuyo Local Government Councils, Hon. Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo KSM, the state’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, highlighted the critical timing of this initiative. He underscored its potential to curb the environmental degradation of mangrove forests caused by human activities. He urged beneficiaries to utilize the resources effectively to enhance their livelihoods and contribute positively to their communities. Additionally, he expressed gratitude to the Governor, Apostle Prince Bassey Edet Otu’s administration for creating a conducive environment for donor agencies, development partners and NGOs interventions in the state.
Mrs. Nifesimi Ogunkua, FAO’ in Nigeria Climate Change Specialist provided an overview of the initiative, explaining that it is part of the technical assistance provided by FAO in partnership with UK PACT to support the Cross River State Government in managing its mangrove ecosystems. She explained that the baseline assessments conducted in five local government areas—Odukpani, Akpabuyo, Bakassi, Calabar South, and Calabar Municipality—that identified the primary contributors to mangrove deforestation as youths and women collecting firewood for cooking.
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Addressing these findings, 500 energy-efficient cook stoves were distributed to women, and aquaculture fiber tanks were installed with bag of fish feeds in five communities within Calabar Municipality.
This is to be replicated in five communities in each of the identified local government areas, reaching a total of 25 communities.
Mrs. Ogunkua encouraged beneficiaries to maximize the benefits of the provided resources, emphasizing the importance of sustainable use for long-term environmental and community well-being.
