Samuel Ngumah, Program Officer at the Participatory Action for Rural Development Alternatives (PARDA), has highlighted the severe challenges faced by women in the Bawku area due to ongoing conflict.
He noted that one of the most pressing issues is the lack of access to quality maternal healthcare, explaining that pregnant women, in particular, struggle to receive essential medical attention amid the instability caused by violence. This uncertainty, he said, leads to heightened stress and fear, further compromising their well-being.
According to Mr. Ngumah, the conflict has also disrupted the local economy, which many women rely on for their livelihoods. Most women in the area are engaged in petty trading, but the violence has made it difficult for them to travel freely between communities to buy and sell goods. Some women have resorted to making arrangements with traders in other areas to obtain food on credit, but even these options are becoming increasingly difficult as the conflict persists.
“Because of the violence, women cannot cross into other areas. Some have made contact with traders in other communities where they can get foodstuffs on credit, sell them, and pay back. But this is becoming harder as the conflict continues,” he explained.
In addition to these challenges, Mr. Ngumah emphasized the importance of sustained engagement with local communities to raise awareness about the broader effects of the violence. He particularly urged youth groups to refrain from being drawn into conflict, pointing out that political elites are often the primary beneficiaries of such unrest.
“We must continue to engage citizens to help them understand the effects of conflicts on their lives. We also need to reach out to youth groups and urge them not to allow themselves to be used to cause trouble, because when trouble comes, the ones who benefit are usually the political elites,” he said.
Mr. Ngumah called on the public to express their frustrations peacefully, warning that resorting to violence only exacerbates the situation. He stressed that while economic hardships are already severe, escalating violence would make life even more perilous.
“You must express your anger through your thumb, not the gun. The gun will not help. If you think the current economic situation is bad, violence will make it even more dangerous,” he cautioned.
This discussion was part of a collaborative effort between the radio station and the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA). The project, titled Countering Hate Speech and Polarizing Narratives to Foster Democratic Consolidation and Peace in Ghana, aims to strengthen the electoral process by promoting tolerance and responsible information sharing.
The initiative seeks to educate the public on the importance of peaceful political discourse, counter divisive and toxic narratives, and foster inclusive dialogue, especially during the election period. Ultimately, it contributes to the broader goal of consolidating Ghana’s democracy and ensuring a peaceful electoral environment.
Source:A1Radioonline.Com|101.1MHZ|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bongo|
