NCCE Engages Bongo Border Communities to Curb Violent Extremism.

Bongo: The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has engaged youth groups in border communities within the Bongo District of the Upper East Region to thwart violent extremism. The initiative is part of a broader effort to prevent the infiltration of such extremism into the country.According to Ghana News Agency, the youth groups were selected from communities including Namoo, Boko, Feo, and Kansoe. The discussions revolved around violent extremism and the pivotal role the youth could play in its prevention. This engagement is a component of the Preventing and Containing Violent Extremism (PCVE) project, which is being implemented by the NCCE across eight regions in Ghana.The project, funded by the European Union (EU), seeks to raise awareness among the youth about the dangers of violent extremism and related conflicts, especially in border areas, as the nation approaches its Presidential and Parliamentary elections. Additionally, the engagement aimed to enhance the youth's understanding of peaceb uilding mechanisms, social cohesion, and community-based strategies, including early warning signs and countering arms proliferation.Facilitators from the Ghana Immigration Service, alongside other stakeholders, conducted workshops focusing on tolerance and building social cohesion. These workshops aimed to empower the youth to foster peaceful engagement, civic responsibility, and reject divisive ideologies.As part of its mission to prevent electoral violence, the NCCE is collaborating with stakeholders such as traditional authorities, opinion leaders, and security agencies to ensure a peaceful electoral process. Ms. Alice Ndego, the Bongo District Director of the Commission, emphasized the crucial role of the youth in fortifying Ghana's democracy and shaping the nation's future.Ms. Ndego highlighted the potential of the youth to counter electoral violence and extremism by promoting peace, unity, and progress, setting an example for others. She urged the youth to refrain from spreading conflict-induci ng messages and encouraged them to support security agencies in maintaining peace and stability within their communities. Furthermore, she cautioned against joining extremist groups, noting the detrimental effects of violent extremism on individuals and the nation as a whole.