Alhaji Buhari Adamu Jama’a is a district head in Kaduna State, Nigeria. In this interview he reflects on how interfaith savings groups have brought people of different faiths together to increase economic wellbeing in their communities.
Please tell us about the groups
‘The savings groups are one of the uniting forces in our community. Before, there were Christian savings groups and Muslim savings groups. Now, both groups have come together to form interfaith savings groups.
‘Some of our community members have been able to start businesses because of the scheme.’
What is happening in your group?
‘We are planning to lease a piece of land that we can farm for a year or two. Afterwards, once we have saved enough money, we plan to purchase some land in the name of the interfaith group.
‘Participants across both faiths will jointly carry out farming activities and share the proceeds.’
What will be the impact of this?
‘The beautiful thing about the idea is that people of both faiths agree with the plan.
‘We can leave a legacy of unity to our grandchildren and great-grandchildren. If I die, my sons and daughters will continue the legacy, and the same goes for other community members.
‘Even if religious conflict erupts, we will meet at the farm and we will have to resolve it, because we have joint financial interests binding us together.’
