Chief of the Kontibtaabig Traditional Area, Naab Bileehsong Lagwonht Namoog, has emphasized that peace is a critical prerequisite for development, highlighting the ongoing challenges in Bawku.
Speaking in an interview on A1 Radio, the traditional leader described the Upper East Region as relatively peaceful, with the exception of Bawku, where persistent conflict continues to impede progress. He stressed that meaningful development cannot occur in an environment of instability and expressed concern over the significant financial resources being diverted to address the security situation in Bawku.
“Before you talk of development, there must be peace in the area. The Upper East seems to be relatively peaceful,” he said.
According to the Chief, the funds currently being spent on peacekeeping and conflict management in Bawku could have been used to develop infrastructure, improve education, and expand economic opportunities across the region. He argued that if resources were properly channeled, the development potential of the Upper East could rival that of fast-growing areas like Tamale.
“Our region suffers from a lack of development because of some of the conflicts that force the government to spend a lot of money. If we don’t give peace a chance—if we knew the quantum of money the Government of Ghana is spending to ensure peace in Bawku—that money could have transformed this region, making it comparable to Tamale. But we allow these things to creep in and destroy our development agenda. So I think we should take a critical look at that.”
He called on the people of the Bawku Traditional Area to embrace peace and urged traditional rulers to explore non-violent, alternative methods of conflict resolution. The Chief stressed that the region’s future hinges on its ability to maintain peace and unity, cautioning that continued unrest would only stall the broader development agenda.
“Let me use this opportunity to call on the people of the Bawku Traditional Area to give peace a chance.”
Source: A1Radioonline.com | 101.1MHz | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga
