Paga: The Upper East Regional Peace Council has underscored the urgent need for peace, unity, and collective responsibility to counter rising violent extremism and internal conflicts that continue to threaten the stability and development of the region.
According to Ghana News Agency, the unresolved tensions not only hinder social cohesion and development but also create a fertile ground for the radicalisation and recruitment of youth by violent extremist groups operating across borders.
Mr. Damian Asobayire, the Executive Secretary of the Upper East Regional Peace Council, made the call during this year's PANAFEST/Emancipation Day celebration held at the Piquero Heritage and Slave Camp in Nania-Paga in the Kassena-Nankana West District. The Executive Secretary revealed that the region was grappling with 64 conflicts, with chieftaincy and land disputes accounting for 66 percent and farmer-herder clashes comprising 30 percent.
'Our region, though blessed with rich cultural heritage and resilient people, is particularly vulnerable due to its geographical position. We share borders with Burkina Faso and Togo, through which extremist influences and arms can easily infiltrate,' Mr. Asobayire stated. He further revealed that just four days prior to the celebration, a donor delegation had to cancel a planned engagement with stakeholders in the region due to security concerns, highlighting the negative perception and real risks posed by conflict.
Mr. Asobayire noted that the current state of division and insecurity was in sharp contrast to the ideals of Pan-Africanism, unity, solidarity, cultural identity, and inclusive development, which formed the foundation of the observance of Emancipation Day. He questioned whether in the face of violent conflicts and polarisation, people could truly speak with one voice and honor their ancestors while allowing divisions to tear them apart.
He called on traditional authorities, political leaders, youth, and civil society to rise above ethnic and political fault lines and embrace peace-building efforts. He warned that open borders, if not well-regulated, could facilitate the unchecked movement of people, arms, and extremist ideologies under the guise of pan-African solidarity, further straining local security and resources.
Nonetheless, he affirmed the Peace Council's commitment to fostering dialogue, social cohesion, and regional resilience through inclusive partnerships with traditional leaders, women, youth, religious groups, and state institutions. 'Let us draw upon the rich traditions of unity, mutual respect, and community dialogue that define this region,' he said.
Mr. Asobayire urged all stakeholders to ensure that the principles of Pan-Africanism were used not to breed conflict but to empower communities, safeguard borders, and advance sustainable development. The event, held under the theme, 'Let Us Speak of Reparative Justice - Pan-African Artistic Activism,' brought together traditional rulers, diaspora representatives, government officials, and community members to reflect on the legacy of slavery and advocate for unity and transformation.
