On October 1st, 2024, Hope for Village Child Foundation (HVCF) hosted a commemorative event for the International Day of Peace at Kasuwan Magani, marking the phase-out of the Protecting Our Community Initiative (POCI) project. In partnership with the Neem Foundation and Karuna Center for Peacebuilding, the event highlighted the remarkable achievements of the POCI project across various communities, including Kujama, Kufana, Kajuru, Sabon Tasha, Kasuwan Magani, and Maraban Rido.
The event commenced at 10:00 AM with an opening prayer and a welcome address, followed by a speech delivered by the Director of HVCF through a representative, translated into Hausa for inclusivity. Representatives of key groups were present, including members of the Early Warning Early Response (EWER) committee, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), and the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN). The gathering also saw the participation of women’s groups, religious leaders, district heads, and staff from HVCF and Neem Foundation.
In her address, the Permanent Commissioner of the Kaduna State Peace Commission, Hajiya Khadija Hawaja Gambo, underscored the essential role of women in peacebuilding and conflict resolution, highlighting the POCI project’s success in fostering peaceful coexistence. Hajiya Khadija praised the significant improvements in the Kasuwan Magani community, comparing its current state to the challenges it faced before the POCI project was implemented.
An important moment during the session was when an EWER committee member urged stakeholders to consider a follow-up project to ensure the sustainability of the POCI project’s achievements. The event had a high turnout, with women comprising about 70% of the attendees. Several women expressed their excitement, noting how they were inspired by the day’s discussions, particularly the speech delivered by Hajiya Khadija.
The event concluded with goodwill messages, a vote of thanks, and refreshments, leaving attendees reflective and hopeful about the future of peacebuilding efforts in their communities.
I have participated in a small way with Sr. Rita of the Dominican Sisters of Peace, just in helping donating money for wells. I want to continue to support the work of the Sisters in your region.
What is the connection between the Dominican Sisters and the Hope for the Village Child Foundation? It seems that both organizations do wonderful work. Do you work together? I am a Catholic, and I first learned of the overwhelming problems there when Sister Rita spoke a couple (or maybe a few!) years ago at Holy Savior Catholic Church in Wichita, KS.