Konesens Development

Climate Change Awareness Session

July Session in Benue State

Climate change Is a global phenomenon that has adverse effects on the environment, life both human, animals and plant, from the high temperatures characterized by heat waves to heavy rain falls and flooding which has left a negative impact on human, animal and plant life, in Benue state.

Due to the change in weather patterns, Benue state has experienced prolong heat and dry seasons which later ushered in late rain fall. The rain falls have not been regular but, when it rains it comes with heavy flooding. In the past few days flooding has been on the rise which results in destruction of properties, collapse of homes, washing away of farmlands and people being displaced. The recent flooding in some commercial areas like Wurukum, Achusa, High-Level has affected economic activities.

As climate change threatens life and safety of lively hood especially women, Konesens Development - Nigeria in partnership with Center for Faith and Community Development held its second climate change awareness session for women on the 26th of July, 2024 at Hudco Quarters Makurdi. There were twenty seven (27) attendees from various works of life (teachers, famers, social workers, environmental specialist etc.)

The session started with an opening prayer by a volunteer followed by a welcome address and objective of the meeting by Patience Terngu.

An advocate of Gender Based Violence and Founder/Executive Director of Glorious Teens Ministry, Dr Beatrice Onoja spoke on domestic violence, forced early marriages and sexual exploitation. The key note speaker Mr. Saaondo Gbihi an environmental specialist spoke on climate change and food security. He highlighted on tree planting, health impact and increased risk of malnutrition as a result of diminished food production and He laid emphasis on urban farming.

Some participants suggested the following:

1. Proper waste disposal management system, and

2. An awareness campaign for tree planting

The session ended with a closing remark and prayer.