From Muawuya Bala Idris, Katsina
In a renewed effort to tackle insecurity and mitigate the impact of climate change in Northern Nigeria, Murna Foundation, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has unveiled the Climate Peace Hub Programme aimed at training 2,000 youths in Katsina and Sokoto States.
The initiative, which seeks to promote peacebuilding and self-reliance, was announced during a capacity-building workshop held in Katsina for the first 100 participants selected from the two pilot local government areas—Jibia in Katsina and Ilela in Sokoto.
Chief Executive Officer of Murna Foundation, Aisha Ahmed, said the Climate Peace Hub Programme would focus on equipping young people with practical skills in solar power installation, repair, and renewable energy solutions to reduce unemployment and promote environmental sustainability.
According to her, the selected youths will also be trained on waste-to-wealth initiatives to convert household and environmental waste into economic opportunities.
“We will also train them on briquette making and mud stove production to reduce dependence on firewood for cooking and other domestic uses,” she said.
“The Peace Hub will also serve as a venue for community dialogue on insecurity and peacebuilding, creating awareness among youths to strengthen peaceful coexistence in their communities.”
Ahmed added that each Peace Hub would be equipped with the necessary tools and facilities to support continuous learning and innovation in the participating local governments.
Speaking at the event, the Katsina State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Lawal Shargalle, commended Murna Foundation and the UNDP for introducing the initiative, describing it as a “laudable step toward addressing youth unemployment, insecurity, and climate-related challenges.”
He assured that the Katsina State Government would identify areas of collaboration to ensure the programme’s success.
In his remarks, the Vice Chairman of Jibia Local Government, Aminu Aliyu, praised the UNDP for its sustained support to conflict-affected communities, including the construction of 150 houses for people displaced by banditry in the area.
Aliyu also pledged the council’s full commitment to ensuring the success of the Climate Peace Hub Programme in Jibia, saying the initiative would go a long way in empowering local youths and promoting peace in the region.