Combating Bush Burning in Gawagu: A Community’s Pledge to Protect the Environment

In the Tolon District lies the community of Gawagu, known for its frequent bush burning practices. The community members burn bushes for various reasons such as clearing land, producing charcoal and fire-logs, and domestic hunting. However, this practice has been identified as a significant contributor to climate change, negatively impacting the environment and atmosphere.

Recognizing the urgency of the issue, the Youth Parliament in Tolon took the initiative to educate the community on the harmful effects of bush burning. They organized a session with young climate change activists known as the Youth Environmental Brigadiers (YEBs). During the session, they informed the community about climate change and highlighted bush burning as a major contributor.

Embracing change with hope for a better future, the community members, alongside their chief, pledged to find a lasting solution. Together, the community elders and youth decided to develop by-laws to be enforced locally. The chief announced that anyone caught burning a bush would be apprehended and fined. Remarkably, during a visit, the chief reported that

"no one has attempted to burn any bush since the session, which is unusual during the dry season."

The community is now committed to safeguarding their trees and plants, abandoning their previous practices.

"The Youth Parliament's session was a wake-up call for us to protect our land. We hope they visit more communities so that our lands and environment are collectively protected," the chief added.

The by-laws, drafted with the support of the Youth Parliament, would be shared with the district environmental protection agency. This collaboration aims to encourage other communities to cease bush burning and protect the environment.

Compiled by Yakubu Hamdiatu