By James innocent
A one-day stakeholder dialogue on Natural Resources Governance that brought together 43 key representatives from various sectors calls for accountability.
The dialogue that attracted participants from local government and community leaders, placed much emphasis on promoting Natural Resource Governance.
Commending OFAO for organizing the dialogue, Yei River County paramount Chief, Joseph Brown Lo Moses emphasized the importance of equipping community members with knowledge about natural resource management.
He highlighted the need to address the issue of deforestation and land mismanagement, which pose significant threats to the county’s natural resources.
The paramount chief further suggested extending such discussions to the grassroots level to mitigate tensions related to natural resources governance.
Rejoice Akakuya, a women’s representative, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the dialogue, stating that it had broadened her understanding of natural resources governance.
Prior to the dialogue, she had limited knowledge of the subject and believed that natural resources were solely managed by landowners.
Organic Farming Advisory Organization (OFAO) convened the dialogue to foster open discussions and advocate for improved natural resources governance laws and practices.
Key objectives included promoting transparency, accountability, and community participation in decision-making processes related to natural resources.
Additionally, participants sought to raise awareness about existing natural resources governance laws and regulations.
During the dialogue, stakeholders discussed challenges in natural resources governance and explored best practices for effective management.
Topics included the roles of community stakeholders in natural resources governance and advocacy strategies to influence policymakers and decision-makers.