Peace Council, CRS hold dialogue on preventing violent extremism in Upper East Region

The National Peace Council, with funding support from the Catholic Relief Services (CRS), has organized a dialogue on the drivers of violent extremism and terrorism in two communities in the Upper East Region.

The dialogue sessions, held in Bui, a border community in the Kassena-Nankana Municipality, and in Bolgatanga, the regional capital, on September 29 and 30, respectively, brought together community members and security agencies to explore ways of collaborating to prevent violent extremism and terrorism.

Organized under the PoVETSA II project, the discussions created a platform for stakeholders to share ideas on challenges affecting security-community collaboration and to propose measures for strengthening relationships in the fight against terrorism.

Janet Sarney-Kuma, Director for Capacity Development and Outreach at the National Peace Council, in her opening remarks, stressed the importance of inclusivity in safeguarding national peace.

“Violent extremism and terrorism pose serious threats not only to our national security but also to the peace and development of our families and communities. While Ghana remains a beacon of stability in the sub-region, we cannot take this peace for granted. We must continue to work together to safeguard it.” She said.

She added that the dialogue offered an opportunity to strengthen the relationship between  communities and the security agencies that work tirelessly to protect communities.

Concerns raised during the dialogue included a lack of trust between security services and community members, divisions among community members, and allegations of unprofessional conduct and breaches of confidentiality by security personnel.

Representing the security services at the Bolgatanga session, DSI Awaitey Clement of the Ghana Immigration Service assured participants that their concerns would be addressed, adding that security services will engage in social activities to foster stronger ties with local communities.

“We have taken cognizance of the gaps raised, particularly building trust, adhering to discipline, and remaining professional in our dealings with the communities.” He noted.

At the close of the Bui dialogue, Damien Asobayire, Upper East Regional Executive Secretary of the Peace Council, highlighted the importance of resilience at the community level.

“We need to build their resilience towards this violent extremist by educating them to know the activities of violent extremists, the mode of operation, and how they radicalize and recruit people.” Asobayire said.

The sessions brought together diverse groups, including women’s and youth associations, persons with disabilities, religious and traditional leaders, and members of the Fulbe community. Security agencies represented included the Ghana Police Service, Ghana Immigration Service, Narcotics Control Commission, and the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority.

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