Choicenewsonline Your Choice Is Here
The Universal Friendship Organisation (UFO) has issued a passionate appeal for immediate and collective action to end the protracted conflict in Bawku, which continues to undermine peace and development in the area.
In a strongly worded press statement, the organisation described the Bawku conflict as one of the most devastating and long-standing crises in Ghana, warning that the continuous loss of lives and destruction of livelihoods threatens the stability of not just the Upper East Region but the country at large.
According to the UFO, over 300 lives have been lost since November 2021, with thousands of residents affected either directly or indirectly. The statement highlighted that fear, tension, and insecurity have driven many residents from their homes, crippling economic activities and turning the once-vibrant municipality into what it called “a ghost town.”
Concerns Over Silence from Peace Advocacy Groups
The organisation expressed disappointment in what it sees as the silence and inaction of peace advocacy groups. It argued that while many of these groups are visible during elections, they have not demonstrated enough interest in mediating traditional and chieftaincy-related conflicts such as the Bawku impasse.
“We are disappointed that peace advocacy groups, which often champion general elections, have not shown sufficient interest in promoting peace in chieftaincy matters,” the statement said. “It is time for these groups to step up in times when their voices are needed most.”
Consequences of the Conflict
The UFO outlined several far-reaching consequences of the ongoing conflict. These include:
- Loss of Lives: Over 300 deaths recorded since late 2021.
- Socio-Economic Disruption: Businesses have shut down, schools remain closed, and residents live in constant fear.
- Threat to National Security: The conflict continues to strain security agencies and risks spreading instability.
- Stalled Development: Projects and government interventions have been halted due to the insecurity.
Proposed Strategies for Peace
To bring lasting peace to the troubled area, the Universal Friendship Organisation proposed a five-pronged approach:
- Stakeholder Engagement – Bringing together traditional leaders, security agencies, local authorities, and community members for open dialogue.
- Conflict Resolution Mechanisms – Establishing trusted systems such as mediation and arbitration panels to resolve disputes.
- Community Engagement – Promoting peace education and encouraging grassroots participation in peacebuilding.
- Improved Security Measures – Boosting security presence to protect lives and property.
- International Support – Engaging international organisations, including the United Nations, to assist with peace efforts.
Appeal for Unity
The Universal Friendship Organisation concluded by calling on all stakeholders – including government agencies, traditional councils, religious leaders, civil society groups, and international partners – to come together to find a lasting solution to the Bawku conflict.
“We believe that with collective commitment, a peaceful resolution is possible. Let us not wait for more lives to be lost before we act,” the statement urged.
The Bawku conflict, rooted in historical chieftaincy disputes, remains one of the most complex conflicts in Ghana. With this renewed call for peace, the Universal Friendship Organisation hopes the region can soon experience the harmony and development its people deserve.
