With the support of Isle of Man and CAFOD, JDPC Pankshin held a meaningful engagement session with key stakeholders from Bungha and Pushit communities in Mangu LGA, Plateau State. The project, titled Enhancing Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), aims to improve access to clean water, proper sanitation, and hygiene practices in these communities.
The stakeholders expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the funding organizations and demonstrated great enthusiasm to support, own, and actively participate in the project. Their commitment and happiness highlight the importance of collaboration in driving sustainable development. Together, we are building healthier communities.
In a powerful two-day workshop, secondary school teachers from Barki-Ladi and Mangu LGAs came together to deepen their understanding of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). This training, funded by CAFOD and supported by Caritas Nigeria JDPC Jos and JDPC Pankshin teams, provided teachers with crucial knowledge and tools to address SGBV in their schools and communities.
The workshop was designed not only to educate but also to inspire. Teachers engaged in meaningful discussions, sharing real-life stories and experiences, which strengthened their understanding of the realities of SGBV. By exploring the dynamics of gender violence and human behavior, they gained insight into how to spot early warning signs and how to approach affected students with empathy and support. They learned strategies for fostering safe spaces, where students feel heard and empowered to seek help.
In an impactful conclusion to the workshop, teachers formed teams to create action plans tailored to their communities. These plans are designed to bring tangible changes to schools across the two LGAs, creating environments where awareness, prevention, and response are at the forefront. These educators are now equipped to help drive lasting change and create safer, more compassionate spaces for all students.
In a heartwarming event aimed at alleviating the impact of hardship on vulnerable communities, a successful relief distribution took place in Bokkos LGA, Plateau State, Nigeria. The distribution, funded by Mission 21 in collaboration with JDPC Jos and supported by JDPC Pankshin, provided vital support to 50 households in need. The relief package included both food items and essential non-food items, carefully selected to help address the urgent needs of the beneficiaries.
The distribution brought not only practical assistance but also renewed hope to the community members. The recipients expressed immense joy and gratitude for the support extended to them during these challenging times. The event was marked by smiles, appreciation, and heartfelt thank-yous, reflecting the significant impact the relief efforts had on the well-being of the participating families.
This initiative is a testament to the ongoing commitment of Mission 21, JDPC Jos, and JDPC Pankshin to support communities facing adversity. The collaboration and dedication of all partners involved demonstrate the power of collective efforts to bring about positive change, touching lives and strengthening resilience in the face of hardship.
As part of the AEJ-WAY Project’s ongoing commitment to fostering inclusive political dialogue, participants successfully organized a **Town Hall Engagement** with Local Government Area (LGA) Chairperson aspirants. The event provided a unique platform for aspirants to directly engage with the community, discuss their policies, and address pressing local issues. Participants, including youth leaders, community stakeholders, and civic advocates, posed vital questions aimed at improving governance, transparency, and development within the LGA.
This engagement marks a significant step in promoting active citizen participation and accountability in local governance. By facilitating direct communication between aspirants and their potential constituents, AEJ-WAY is strengthening democratic processes and empowering communities to make informed choices. The success of this town hall underscores the importance of open dialogue in ensuring that local leadership reflects the needs and aspirations of the people.
As part of the ongoing AEJ-WAY Project, JDPC Pankshin, JDPC Jos, and CAFOD successfully conducted a comprehensive training session on Community Engagement and Political Mobilization in Mangu Local Government Area. The training aimed at empowering local leaders, community representatives, and youth advocates with the knowledge and tools to foster meaningful civic participation and effective political engagement. Through interactive workshops and practical exercises, participants gained insights on how to build trust within their communities, communicate political issues effectively, and mobilize for positive change.
This initiative reflects AEJ-WAY's commitment to strengthening grassroots leadership and promoting democratic values in the region. By equipping community members with these critical skills, we are fostering a culture of active citizenship and inclusive governance that will contribute to long-term sustainable development. The energy and enthusiasm from participants reaffirmed the importance of this work, as they now stand better equipped to champion their communities' interests.
40 Participants from Sabon Gari and Kasuwan Ali Communities were trained on Right Based Advocacy on the 20th -22nd of August 2024 in Mangu LGA. The training aimed at strengthening advocacy efforts through strategic partnerships and stakeholder engagement, and advocating for the communities' rights and needs by unifying various groups' voices at the community and Local Government levels. With these, participants' awareness was increased, and capacities strengthened in the identification of key advocacy issues within the communities, stakeholders mapping, and amplifying their voices through the appropriate channels to the relevant authorities.
This initiative is a significant step towards fostering a more engaged and informed community, capable of driving positive change in Mangu LGA and Plateau State.
The project “Accessible and Equitable Justice for Women and Youth” (AEJ-WAY), is funded by the Catholic Agency For Overseas Development (CAFOD) and is being implemented by Pankshin Catholic Diocesan Justice Development and Peace/Caritas (JDPC Pankshin), Justice Development and Peace Caritas/Commission Jos (JDPC JOS), and Caritas Nigeria (CCFN).
The Accessibe and Equitable Justice for Women and Youth (AEJ-WAY) Project funded by Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD), with its implementing Partners JDPC Pankshin, JDPC Jos and Caritas Nigeria (CCFN), had three (3) days corporate leadership training program for 40 participants from the project communities of Kasuwa Ali and Sabon Gari in Mangu LGA.
The initiative equipped men, women and youth with essential skills to become proactive leaders in their communities. The training focused on critical areas such as concepts of leadsership and its core principles, adaptive leadership development, challenges faced by women and youth in leadership, self-empowerment strategies, social capital advancement, and gender equity. Through interactive sessions and leadership simulations, participants gained valuable tools and knowledge to address challenges that will bring lasting change in their communities.
Grateful to CRS Nigeria, through the leadership of Wilson, for the courtesy visit to the Bishop of Pankshin, to reaffirm their commitment to the support of IDPs, in Bokkos, Pankshin Diocese.
This visit coincided with the 10th anniversary of the Episcopal Ordination of Bishop Michael G. Gokum and the canonical erection of the Diocese.
May the Lord bless the good will of those who support this most vulnerable population of Pankshin Diocese1.
In response to the recurrent crisis affecting Bokkos, Mangu and Barkin LGAs of Plateau State, the continous compassion and solidarity of the Catholic Bishops on the Plateau, His Grace Most Rev. Matthew Ishaya Audu (Archbishop of Jos), His Lordship Most Rev. Michael Gobal Gokum (Bishop of Pankshin), and His Lordship Most Rev. Philip Davou Dung (Bishop of Shendam), visited and distributed relief materials to 103 households affected by the crisis. This solidarity visit was to encourage and support the many displaced persons in Pankshin Diocese and beyond.
The items distributed includes rice, maize, beans, red oil, seasoning cubes and salt. The fund was raised by the Catholic Faithful of the Dioceses of the state(Jos, Shendam and Pankshin).
The Bishops prayed for the end of this troubling times in the affected communities of the state, that the wounded will be healed, the displaced may return to their homes and the dead may rest in Peace.
JDPC Pankshin, in collaboration with some philanthropist, Dr David Shamaki and Friends, provided support to 20 displaced households in Dawo-Bungha and surrounding communities of Panyam District, Mangu LGA of Plateau state.
These families, displaced in the recent attacks in their communities, were provided with food items to alleviate their current hardships.
Some of the items presented to beneficiaries include, bags of maize, beans, rice, cooking oil, among others.
Thanks to the collaborative efforts of CAFOD and JDPC Pankshin, two boreholes have been successfully drilled, bringing clean water access to Gungi community in Kanke LGA.
The presence and blessing of Most Rev. Micheal Gopal Gokum, Bishop of Pankshin Diocese, further highlight the significance of this event.
We're fostering positive transformations and securing a brighter future for all members of our community.
With the show of support and compassionate solidarity, The Bishop of Pankshin Diocese, Most Rev Michael G. Gokum aptly represented by Rev. Fr. Paul, the Vicar General Pankshin Diocese, aid in reducing the effect of the recent attacks in Bokkos LGA.
The Coordiantor JDPC Pankshin, Rev Fr. Basil Fukshiwe Kassam and MCC distributed relief items to 90 households, where the received both food and non food items.
JDPC Pankshin Diocese, MCC and the entire Christ's Faithful remain grateful for this show of solidarity.
In continous show of compassionate solidarity and support to the survivors of Christmas Eve terrorists attack in Bokkos, Barkin Ladi and Mangu LGAs, the Bishop of Yola Diocese, Most Rev Stephen Dami Mamza, visited and distributed relief materials to 150 households. Representing the Bishop, Rev Fr Maurice Kwairanga, the JDPC Coordinator of Yola, distributed the relief materials with support from Mission Take Heart.
If you will recall, many communities of Bokkos, Mangu and Barkin Ladi were brutally attacked by assailants leading to the death of over 200 people and displacement of over 2000 households, who are currently taking refuge in different camps, mostly schools and places of worship in Bokkos and other nearby communities.
The Bishop, Most Rev Michael G. Gokum, JDPC Pankshin Diocese, and the entire Christ's Faithful remain grateful for this show of solidarity.
In solidarity with the survivors of Christmas Eve terrorists attack in Bokkos, the Bishop, Most Rev Michael G Gokum, visited the affected communities and distributed relief materials to 250 households.
You will recall that, many communities of Bokkos, Mangu and Barkin Ladi LGAs were brutally attacked by assailants leading to the death of over 200 people and displacement of over 2000 households, who are currently taking refuge in different camps, mostly schools and places of worship in Bokkos and other nearby communities.
We are grateful to CBCN; CCFN; Bishop Matthew Kukah; JDPC Jos and all those who supported the Diocese in this trying moment.
With support of CAFOD, JDPC Pankshin conducted a transformative training program in Gungji Kanke LGA, Plateau State, where 30 hygiene educators were equipped with comprehensive knowledge in personal, environmental, food, and water hygiene. This initiative is a significant step towards a healthier and more informed community. Group leaders have been appointed to lead advocacy visits to district leaders and facilitate training sessions for other community members as outlined in their action plans. Together, we are fostering positive change and building a brighter, healthier future for all .
JDPC Pankshin in collaboration with the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) has successfully completed the second phase of relief distribution to 105 vulnerable households of internally displaced persons. This relief effort encompassed a diverse range of necessities, including both food and non-food items aimed at alleviating the hardships faced by these individuals in the aftermath of recent attacks in their homes. The heartfelt gratitude expressed by the beneficiaries reflects the profound impact of this initiative.
In a collaborative effort between JDPC Pankshin and Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD), a 3 day transformative training on Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) was conducted in Gungji community, Kanke L.G.A. The training proved to be enlightening, interactive and elevating with 30 dedicated participants from the Gunji community.
The focal point of the training was to highlight the vital significance of good hygiene practices, utilizing clean and safe water. Participants were immersed in the understanding that the use of uncontaminated water not only contributes to well-being but also profoundly impacts overall health. Through interactive sessions, the participants were sensitized about the pivotal role of sanitation in fostering a pristine and healthful environment. A cleaner surrounding, it was emphasized, drastically reduces the risk of ailments and supports the promotion of good health.
Underscoring the essence of adopting a hygienic lifestyle remained a central theme throughout the training. The participants absorbed the knowledge that embracing hygienic practices stands as a cornerstone for cultivating robust healthy life style. As the training sessions unfolded, a palpable shift was observed in the participants' attitudes. Prior to its conclusion, participants proactively engaged in cleansing and sanitizing their residences, water sources, and the immediate surroundings. This enthusiastic undertaking symbolized their commitment to nurturing a sustainable and health-conscious way of life.
A transformative event took place in the heart of Gungi community, situated in Kanke L.G.A of Plateau State. With the unwavering support of Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD), JDPC Pankshin embarked on a dedicated mission to foster the holistic development of humanity. Amidst the serene surroundings of Gungi community, a vibrant exchange of knowledge and ideas unfolded during the two-day community mapping and triggering. The spotlight was on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) best practices, an essential foundation for the well-being and prosperity of any community.
The intricacies of waterborne diseases were illuminated, showcasing how these ailments stealthily undermine health, leading to both personal suffering and significant financial burdens. The stark reality of potential loss of life due to preventable health issues was a wake-up call that resonated deeply with 114 representatives in from the community. Different methodology was used to achieved the said action such as community Participatory Appraisal, KAP, and there was practical session on the drawing the map of the community alongside walk of shame which aide the sessions were the participants emphasizes the paramount importance of incorporating WASH best practices as a cornerstone of community life was point of focus from the findings.
In continuous show of compassionate solidarity with the IDPs of Mangu local government area, the Bishop Most Rev Michael G Gokum, JDPC Pankshin in Conjunction with JDPC Jos, with support from Mennonite Central Committee, visited and presented relief materials to another set of a 105 most vulnerable households. These included food and non-food items.
If you will recall, many communities of Mangu were brutally attacked by assailants leading to the death of over 300 people and displacement of over 3000 households, who are currently taking refuge in different camps, mostly schools and places of worship in Mangu and other nearby communities.
This show of solidarity will go a long way in aleviating the pain and hardship experienced by these numerous brothers and sisters of Mangu in Plateau state.
May the Lord, who is able to do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine, reward those who provided these relief materials and restore peace to our affected communities. Amen
In continuous solidarity with the over 3000 households displaced in Mangu LGA of Plateau state, the Catholic Bishops on the Plateau, Most Rev. Matthew Ishaya Audu of Jos, Archdiocese, Most Rev Philip Davou Dung of Shendam and the host Bishop, Most Rev. Michael Gobal Gokum visited the IDPs in Mangu town to encourage them in their present predicament. This took place on Monday 7th August, 2023 at St. Francis Catholic Church Mangu.
In a compassionate solidarity, the Bishops provided and distributed relief materials to 100 most vulnerable households. These were mostly food items and some non-food items. This gesture was deeply appreciated by the IDPs who are exposed to different forms of hardship, pain and traumatic experiences. While showing their appreciation amidst mixed feelings of joy and sorrows, they acknowledged that the support of the Church fathers was received with a great difference; because it was ‘accompanied by love, compassion, prayers and blessings’ said the spokesperson who represented the IDPs.
While encouraging the IDPs to move on with life despite the unpleasant situations life in the camps offers, Msgr. Cletus T. Gotan called on them to forgive and have faith in God, whose ways are beyond human comprehension. This was concluded with prayers for the IDPs and the entirety of the state and nation for peace to return, so that the displaced population of about 65 000 individuals in Mangu can return back to their homes where their livelihood sources are tied to.
We call on more spirited groups and individuals to come to the aid of these our brothers and sisters who are still dependent on the support of others since they cannot return home because of their destroyed houses and property.
Pankshin Diocesan JDPC is thrilled to share a groundbreaking opportunity for the incredible farmers of Gungji community in Kanke LGA. This is a transformative journey towards sustainable agriculture through organic farming. With generous support from CAFOD, we are Conducting a comprehensive training program that aims to equip our local farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to cultivate healthy and eco-friendly crops while preserving the environment.
In this interactive training, participants have the chance to learn about innovative organic farming techniques, such as natural pest control, soil improvement, and crop rotation. We also explore the benefits of organic fertilizers and the importance of natural crop rotation, use of natural crop protection. Awareness is also created on climate change; its causes and effect To crops, land and human with coping mechanism. Together, we will pave the way for a greener future, creating a thriving agricultural community that fosters both food security and environmental sustainability.
JDPC Pankshin with support from CAFOD has set the stage to implement a project titled 'Water, Sustainable Agriculture and Governance (WASAG)' in Gungji Community, Shiwer District, Kanke LGA of Plateau State. With the mandate of JDPC to work with and not for the communities, the project team embarked on community engagement and advocacy to mobilize for support of strategic stakeholders in the community. The visit harvested the commitment of community members to engage in the project cycle actively, ensure ownership and sustainability of the project.
JDPC Pankshin staff had an experience sharing and knowledge-based interaction with Staff of Caritas Nigeria yesterday 5th June, 2023 on Water, Sustainable Agriculture, and Governance Project implemented in Kanke LGA with Support from CAFOD. The participatory interaction provided a helpful understanding and facilitated the process for the implementation of result-based oriented intervention. We appreciate Caritas Nigeria for the mentorship and pray for more capacity strengthening exercises in the Diocese of Pankshin and other Dioceses in Nigeria.
In a compassionate effort to assist communities affected by violent attack in Mangu LGA , JDPC Pankshin with Support from Caritas Nigeria provided essential relief materials to 70 households. The emergency intervention included vital food and non-food items specifically aimed at aiding displaced persons and mitigating the consequences of the April and May violent attacks on 22 communities leading to the loss of over 131 lives, burning of 776 houses and displacement of over 870 households. The beneficiaries of this emergency relief intervention from 5 most hit communities expressed their heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to JDPC Pankshin and Caritas Nigeria for their invaluable assistance during these challenging times. The organization's intervention has proven to be a lifeline for those affected, fostering hope and resilience within the communities reached. JDPC Pankshin remains committed to its mission of promoting social justice and improving the lives of vulnerable individuals and communities. Our selfless acts of kindness continue to make a significant difference, creating a positive ripple effect that extends far beyond the immediate beneficiaries.
JDPC's resilience building effort to conflict-affected population in Miakatako, Kwatas and Mangor Communities of Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State was strengthened with the distribution of Food and non-food items at a centralised Kuba Community today 2nd May, 2023. The relief distribution marked the final phase of a three fold planned humanitarian intervention in the violent affected communities. JDPC appreciates the support of Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) in ameliorating the effects of displacement on the beneficiaries. To the glory of God, the beneficiaries are now returning to normal life as they engage in socio-economic activities for improved livelihood, self-reliance and rehabilitation of thier destroyed homes.
JDPC Pankshin's Humanitarian Relief effort continue to put smiles on the faces of conflict-affected population across the Diocese and beyond. Bokkos Local Government experienced reoccurrence of violent attacks in November 2022 leading to over 120 households displaced, farms and houses destroyed and many lives lost. With support from the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC), JDPC has been able to support 90 households with food and non-food items to cushion the effects of displacement. This is in addition to Basic Psychosocial Support Service (PSS) using the Healing and Rebuilding Our Communities (HROC) model provided to 90 persons in 3 conflict-affected communities of Mai-katako, Kwatas and Mangor. It was heart-warming as the intervention rekindled hope and strengthened the resilience level of the beneficiaries.
Food security is key to ending hunger, starvation and improve livelihood of conflict-affected population. JDPC Pankshin through the generous contribution of well meaning individuals supported 10 households with Irish Potatoes and Maize seedling in Bokkos LGA of Plateau State. The beneficiaries were victims of violent conflict whose farmlands and houses were completely destroyed by activities of armed militia men in November 2022. JDPC appreciate the generosity of individuals who continue to provide resources for humanitarian assistance in the Diocese of Pankshin.
