Assembly members and Unit Committee members in the Upper East Region are receiving crucial training aimed at equipping them to respond effectively to violent extremism and manage land conflicts.
The training emphasizes building their capacity to prevent violence and promote peace in their communities.
The sessions focused on understanding the nature of conflict, the dangers of radicalization, the economic impact of violent extremism, early warning indicators, and the significance of the Land Act, 2020 (Act 1036).
As key stakeholders, Assembly members and Unit Committee members are expected to apply this knowledge to support both state and non-state actors in safeguarding the peace and stability of the region.
Ghana faces an ongoing threat from violent extremism, especially given the situation in neighboring countries like Burkina Faso and Togo.
The training, which took place at the Kassena-Nankana Municipal Assembly and Builsa South District Assembly, is part of the Atlantic Corridor Project, funded by the government of Norway through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Ali Anankpieng, Executive Secretary of the Upper East Regional Peace Council, emphasized that engaging those who interact with the community daily will help in early detection of conflict signs and strengthen local peace efforts.
“We have conducted community forums, PVE [Preventing Violent Extremism] in schools, and training for businesswomen and youth involved in cross-border trade. This particular training is targeting Assembly members and Unit Committee members. We are engaging them on the Land Act, preventing violent extremism, and understanding violence and conflicts,” he explained.
The sessions are part of a broader initiative involving partners like the governments of Germany, Australia, and Denmark.
Madam Eunice Alieka, a Unit Committee member from Sikasa Electoral Area, shared how the training has enhanced her understanding of conflict management.
“I used to think that, as the landowner, I could do whatever I wanted with the land. But today, I have learned so much. With the knowledge gained, I now see that land is not like any other property to be sold without proper documentation. This understanding will help me manage some of the existing land conflicts in the community by guiding people to seek redress in the appropriate places.”
Another participant, Jacob Amoak Anaab, praised the organizers for the training, noting that it will significantly aid efforts to resolve conflicts and maintain peace in the area.
This targeted capacity-building effort aims to fortify community resilience, reduce land disputes, and curb the spread of violent extremism, contributing to a safer and more stable Upper East Region.
Source: A1radioonline.com|101.1 MHz|Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith|Ghana
