Bolgatanga: The National Association of Bimobas, Mobas and Grumas (NABMAG) has convened a peacebuilding conference in Bolgatanga, aimed at developing concrete strategies to mitigate the recurring conflicts within their communities.
According to Ghana News Agency, the conference, attended by chiefs, elders, youth and religious leaders, and government officials, sought to address what they described as the 'damaged image' of the Bimoba people because of protracted disputes, including recent violent clashes in Ngama-Gberuk and Naniik. The agenda included presentations from community leaders on the reputational impact of the conflicts, strategies for managing disputes, and the role of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in facilitating peace processes.
Mr Konsab Amos Mateyennu, the President of NABMAG, stated that the Association deemed it necessary to mobilise its members to chart a new course for peace. He emphasized the need to redirect energies toward development, such as building schools, hospitals, and roads, instead of dealing with continuous unrest.
Reverend (Rtd.) Peter Bandim, a native of Nakpanduri, highlighted that while NABMAG might lack the technical capacity to resolve these conflicts, it intended to 'strategise and invite professional mediators and NGOs with the expertise to draw a roadmap for conflict resolution.'
Mr Joseph Larchir Ali, the District Chief Executive of Bunkpurugu-Nakpanduri, provided insights into the humanitarian impact, revealing that 1,642 people had been displaced, 176 houses demolished, and 20 schools shut down due to insecurity. He stressed the urgent need for a united front, as entire communities remained deserted and development was hindered.
Participants at the conference agreed to identify credible partners, including NGOs, to work with NABMAG in initiating dialogue, mediation, and a long-term peace roadmap. Mr David Angamba, the Principal Programmes Manager at the Upper East Regional Peace Council, expressed support for the initiative and emphasized the importance of unity and truthfulness to resolve disputes and maintain peace for future generations.
