The National Peace Council (NPC) reports encouraging signs of commitment to dialogue and peaceful coexistence in ongoing engagements between the Kusasi and Mamprusi communities in Bawku.
These discussions, supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Government of Japan, have allowed stakeholders to openly address their concerns and aspirations for peace. The NPC noted that talks have been frank and constructive, with participants showing a willingness to pursue dialogue to resolve tensions.
The protracted conflict in Bawku has severely disrupted economic activities and livelihoods in the Upper East Region. Businesses have closed, trade routes are affected, and agricultural productivity has declined due to insecurity. The region, a significant contributor to Ghana's food basket, has seen its economic potential hampered by the instability, impacting local and national supply chains. Previous government interventions, including a GHS 1 billion Bawku Revitalisation Fund, underscore the economic toll of the conflict.
The NPC cautioned against measuring progress solely by the speed of reaching a final agreement. It commended participants for their patience, stressing that building lasting peace requires sustained engagement and trust from all sides. The Council also urged media, commentators, and social media users to exercise greater responsibility when discussing Bawku developments.
The NPC specifically highlighted concerns about unverified claims, videos, and voice notes circulating, which can heighten tensions. The Council warned that artificial intelligence (AI) makes distinguishing authentic from AI-generated material increasingly difficult. It therefore called on the public and media to exercise caution, emphasizing that social media must not become another arena for conflict.
Furthermore, the NPC stressed the importance of community ownership for sustainable peace in Bawku. Traditional and religious leaders, women, and young people must continue demonstrating leadership and commitment to peaceful coexistence. These groups play a vital role in building confidence and encouraging peaceful approaches to resolving disagreements within their communities. The Council affirmed that lasting peace cannot be secured solely through external interventions.
The NPC expressed gratitude to the UNDP and the Government of Japan for their support. It called on other development and peacebuilding partners to continue supporting the initiative, advocating for an inclusive and impartial process. Maintaining confidentiality in sensitive engagements is crucial, allowing participants to speak openly without fear of discussions being taken out of context.
Resolving the Bawku situation demands sustained collective efforts involving affected communities, traditional authorities, and government institutions. The Council rejected the idea that a single institution or intervention could independently deliver lasting peace. It stated, “Peace in Bawku cannot be built by one institution, one community or one intervention; it must be built, sustained and owned together.” Continued dialogue and the gradual rebuilding of trust remain essential to the process.