The National Peace Council, in collaboration with Catholic Relief Services and other partners, has organized a two-day Responsibility to Protect training for 30 security personnel in the Upper East Region.
The training, held in Bolgatanga, brought together officers from the Military, Immigration Service, Fire Service, and Police, focusing on enhancing security-civilian relations in conflict management situations.
The initiative aimed to promote the use of a soft humanitarian approach rather than forceful methods when handling civilians during crises.
Speaking at the event, Frank Wilson Bodza, Deputy Director in charge of Conflict Management and Resolution at the National Peace Council, emphasized that adopting this internationally recognized approach fosters trust and cooperation between security agencies and civilians.
Mr. Bodza further urged security personnel to uphold professionalism when engaging with civilians, stating, “Security officers must be seen as protectors, not threats. Civilians, in turn, should recognize them as allies in ensuring peace and stability.”
The training in Bolgatanga is part of a broader initiative targeting 150 security personnel across five northern regions in response to rising tensions in these areas.
The National Peace Council believes that by equipping officers with conflict-sensitive approaches, the risk of violent confrontations between security forces and civilians can be significantly reduced.
Amid growing concerns over conflicts and security challenges in northern Ghana, the training underscores the Peace Council’s commitment to fostering trust, consensus, and stability. The Council remains hopeful that this intervention will strengthen security-civilian relations and contribute to lasting peace in the region.
Source: A1Radioonline.com | 101.1MHz | Moses Apiah | Bolgatanga
