CRS Organizes Football Match to Promote Peace Between Paga Youth and Security Services.

Paga: The Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Ghana, in collaboration with the National Peace Council, has successfully organized a football match between the Paga youth and security services in the Kassena Nankana West District. This initiative aims to bridge the gap and foster peace between the two groups.According to Ghana News Agency, the football game was the centerpiece of a series of dialogue sessions and peace-building activities in the district, all part of CRS's Prevention of Violent Extremism Through Social Accountability (PoVETSA) II project. Funded by the Dutch government, the PoVETSA project is implemented in partnership with the Peace Council across five regions, including Upper East, Upper West, North East, Northern, and Greater Accra. The initiative aims at improving trust relations between civilians and security services to prevent violent extremism.The match concluded with a 3-1 victory for the youth, symbolizing a significant step towards peace. Both teams celebrated the event, focusing on building lasting relationships, irrespective of the outcome. Adelaide Yiriyelleh, the Project Manager of PoVETSA at CRS Ghana, emphasized that the event was not solely about the game but about fostering trust and partnership in ensuring peace.Mr. David Angaamba, Principal Program Manager of the Upper East Regional Peace Council, highlighted the importance of building a cordial relationship between security services and civilians to counter violent extremism. He pointed out that extremists often exploit conflict situations, but a peaceful relationship between civilians and security can help resist extremist ideologies, promoting sustainable peace for the country's development.Deputy Superintendent of Immigration (DSI) Robert Ubindam, Head of Operations and Intelligence at the Paga Sector Command of the Ghana Immigration Service, remarked that the match presented an opportunity to connect with the youth and foster unity. He noted that security is a shared responsibility, and such activities build cohesion, reminding everyone of their role in the community.Mr. Wenawome Aborah, Youth Chairperson of the Paga Youth Movement, expressed gratitude for the initiative, acknowledging that the CRS's efforts are a positive step towards fostering peace and cooperation. He assured that his group is committed to collaborating with the security services to combat crime, reinforcing the spirit of partnership for a peaceful community.