A recent training session organized by a collaborative effort between the Global Peace Foundation and S.H Makeri Consult focused on equipping traditional and religious leaders in Kachia Local Government of Kaduna State with skills in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). The goal of the training was to empower community leaders to effectively resolve conflicts within their regions and prevent escalation into violence.
The training, led by John Hayab of GPF, emphasized the importance of community leaders in conflict resolution and highlighted the necessity for grassroots leaders to utilize all available options to address disputes. The Northern Co-ordinator of GBF, Halliru Maraya, emphasized the significant role community leaders play in shaping the peace and stability of their communities.
Participants were educated on various ADR mechanisms, types of mediation, and the Multi-Door Courthouse system. The advantages of ADR, such as time-saving, cost-effectiveness, and maintaining cordial relationships, were discussed by speakers like Dorcas Daniel from the Kaduna High Court.
The training also featured a presentation on the role of Sulhu (reconciliation) in dispute resolution, emphasizing its importance in achieving fair and peaceful resolutions. Community leaders, represented by figures like Vice-Chairman Husseini Abdullahi and Agwom Kachia, Zamani Dogonyaro, expressed their commitment to promoting harmony and social cohesion within their communities.
Overall, the session aimed to equip leaders with the necessary skills to handle conflicts effectively, reduce the burden on the legal system, and promote peaceful coexistence among community members.