Ministry, CHRGG to address farmer–pastoralist conflicts

DODOMA: THE Ministry of Agriculture reaffirmed its commitment to work with the Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance (CHRGG) to protect human rights, especially the right to life, in communities affected by farmerpastoralist conflicts.

The Ministry’s Deputy Permanent Secretary, Mr Athuman Kilundunya, made the statement during a visit to the CHRGG pavilion at the ongoing Nane Nane International Agricultural Exhibition at Nzuguni grounds in Dodoma.

“One of the major challenges we are addressing is the ongoing conflict between farmers and pastoralists in various regions, which often results in serious human rights violations, including the right to life,” Mr Kilundunya said.

He called for strengthened collaboration between the Ministry and CHRGG in conflict resolution, stating: “Let us work together to address these disputes. CHRGG can offer us recommendations based on your investigations, so we can better support affected communities.”

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CHRGG Assistant Director for Public Education and Communication, Ms Zawadi Msalla, pointed up the importance of the Nane Nane exhibition as a platform for public engagement, particularly with rural communities most affected by human rights challenges.

“We are participating in Nane Nane to educate farmers and pastoralists about their fundamental rights, offer legal advice, and receive complaints concerning human rights and governance issues,” she said.

Ms Msalla noted that recurring land and resource conflicts between the two groups continue to threaten social harmony and development, stressing the need for legal awareness and peaceful coexistence.

“CHRAGG aims to promote peace, justice and the rule of law in resolving these disputes. We value our partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and remain committed to ensuring that human rights principles are upheld in the agriculture and livestock sectors,” she added.