FIRE Summit 2024 Jos

FIRE Summit Jos

Plateau State Nigeria is known as the “Home of Peace and Tourism,” boasts an estimated population of around 4.7 million individuals. The state thrives on its abundant agricultural resources, serving as a primary source of income, predominantly practiced on a semi-subsistence scale by individuals. However, the adverse effects of climate change have significantly impacted the region, resulting in diminished yields and scarce resources, particularly arable land. Consequently, this has triggered conflicts between farmers and herders, often resulting in tragic loss of life. While governmental efforts persist in addressing this recurring issue, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) are also actively engaged in supporting these initiatives.

For environmentalists and organizations such as Climrenew, it is imperative to think innovatively and delve into the root causes of these conflicts. One major contributor to this strife is land degradation, coupled with deforestation driven by the demand for energy, notably for everyday domestic needs like cooking. While endeavors such as tree planting projects aim to promote awareness and preserve green spaces, they prove insufficient. Moreover, viable energy alternatives are lacking. A significant portion of the state’s population heavily relies on charcoal production from tree felling for domestic energy needs.

To address this challenge, it is essential to raise awareness about alternative energy sources, such as subsidized solar cookers. Such initiatives could mitigate the reliance on charcoal production, thereby preserving greenery for other purposes. Additionally, exploring funding mechanisms like carbon tax regimes, as exemplified by the case study of Guyana, could finance the transition to sustainable energy alternatives.

Primary Host: Naphtali Akudung