By Olufunmi
The Adolescent Health and Information Project (AHIP), in collaboration with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), has trained 50 female informal cross-border traders in Kano on safe migration and compliance with border regulations.
The training, organised under the Resilient Opportunities for Outreach, Trade and Sustainability (ROOTS) project, was aimed at equipping the traders with knowledge of travel documentation, border procedures, migrants’ rights and safe business practices.
Speaking during the training, a Facilitator Muhammed Auwal Hassan said the programme was designed to sensitise the women to the differences between regular and irregular migration.
Hassan said cross-border movement for business was lawful, provided travellers complied with the relevant immigration requirements and regulations of the countries concerned.
He urged the traders to obtain valid travel documents and use recognised border crossing points to avoid the risks associated with irregular migration.
According to him, travelling through unauthorised routes could expose migrants to dangerous conditions, exploitation and other security risks, particularly along routes through the Sahara Desert.
He said understanding legal migration procedures was essential for women engaged in cross-border trade to protect themselves and conduct their businesses within the law.
Hassan also highlighted the longstanding social, cultural and economic ties among communities across West Africa, noting that such relationships had continued to facilitate trade and interaction across national borders.
He urged the participants to apply the knowledge acquired during the training and ensure that their travel and business activities complied with applicable laws and regulations.
The training forms part of efforts by AHIP and its partners to promote safe migration and strengthen the capacity of women engaged in informal cross-border trade.
On her part, Sadiqa Usman Musa, a gurasa seller who spoke on behalf of the women said people should do their business legally.
”I learned so many things, like how we women should be handling our business when you are crossing the border, how to mix with security there, and you should know how to present yourself to avoid yourself from harassment”,she said.
She thanked Ahip for the training and promise to make good use of what they were taught.
Maimuna Alkasim, a perfume seller who transport sell across Niger said she has learn more and will be taken it home to other women who are into business to beware of fraud stars and be more careful when it comes to issues of immigration.
AHIP trains 50 female cross-border traders on safe migration
By Edito
NEMA reaffirms commitment to effective disaster management 
KAROTA MD condoles agency’s Chief Imam over son’s death 
KIRCT targets innovative solutions to health challenges through research 
NUJ Kano pledges support for state’s development, responsible journalism