In response to these challenges, the UNDP Northwest Prevention Facility Programme funded by the Government of Germany, implemented across Sokoto, Katsina, and Zamfara States, is designed to revive economic activities in communities impacted by crisis. The programme adopts a multi-faceted approach, ranging from the construction of affordable housing and revitalization of market infrastructure to the provision of tools, grants, and capacity-building support for small business owners. It also places strong emphasis on empowering women and strengthening community resilience, ensuring that recovery is inclusive and sustainable.

For individuals like Usman, these interventions represent more than just support, they offer a pathway to rebuild livelihoods, restore dignity, and renew hope for a more stable future.

“I was seriously considering relocating from Jibia in search of better opportunities for myself and my family. At that point, I was deeply frustrated. My business had become increasingly difficult to sustain, and I often had to take loans just to keep it running. Most times, I would borrow money simply to buy fuel for the machines I used in producing blocks. It felt like I was only surviving from hand to mouth for years.

Everything continued like that until I was introduced to the programme. Initially, I was sceptical because I had seen many initiatives come and go without real impact. But at the time, I wasn’t engaged in anything meaningful, so I decided to give it a try and enrolled in the capacity-building training sessions organised by KASEDA. During the training, we were equipped with practical knowledge and skills that completely shifted my perspective on business management and productivity. It wasn’t just theory, we were guided on how to better structure our operations, manage resources efficiently, and identify opportunities for growth even within our existing circumstances. That exposure became a turning point for me” Usman narrates