The Upper East Regional Executive Secretary of the National Peace Council, Damien Asobayire, has commended the vital role of local peace structures in sustaining peace efforts, particularly in conflict-prone areas such as Bawku.
Speaking on A1 Radio, Mr. Asobayire highlighted the significant strides made by the Regional Peace Council in mitigating tensions through community-based mechanisms and strategic dialogue.
“But for the Peace Council, the region would have witnessed more instability,” he stated.
He revealed that the Council has successfully established nine local peace committees, many of which are located in conflict hotspot zones, especially in and around Bawku.
These committees, supported by donor partnerships, serve as grassroots mechanisms for dialogue facilitation, early warning, and community-level peacebuilding.
To further strengthen these efforts, the Council recently trained 24 individuals in the Bawku West District, designating them as “peace champions.” Their role is to assist in conflict mediation and help expand the Council’s presence and responsiveness across communities.
Mr. Asobayire also acknowledged the involvement of His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, in the national mediation process. He expressed optimism that this intervention would complement local peacebuilding efforts and contribute to achieving sustainable peace in the area.
He spoke about the Bawku Inter-Ethnic Peace Committee, a long-standing platform for dialogue among conflicting factions. Originally established years ago, the committee was revitalized in 2015 by the Peace Council to strengthen inclusive engagement and dialogue.
However, Mr. Asobayire admitted that recent escalations in violence have disrupted the committee’s operations.
“For some time now, it has not been easy for us to work due to the issues that are coming up,” he noted, adding that the Council typically refrains from intervening during periods of active conflict, leaving immediate responses to security agencies.
Despite these challenges, he said discussions are ongoing with members of the peace committee to revive its operations.
“We believe that dialogue is the way forward. If you want to continue to use war, that will not address the issue,” he emphasized.
The National Peace Council continues to urge all parties involved in the Bawku conflict to embrace non-violent dialogue, promote community reconciliation, and work collectively toward the restoration of lasting peace and stability in Bawku and surrounding areas.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Moses Apiah|Bolgatanga
