Northern Development Forum Calls for Peace in Bawku
*Bawku, Ghana* – In a heartfelt appeal, the Northern Development Forum (NDF) has urged the people of Bawku to embrace peace and unity amid ongoing tensions in the area. As the regional community gears up for the annual Samanpiid festival, which celebrates the harvest and renewal, the call from NDF underscores the need for harmony and collaboration to foster progress in Bawku and the Kusaug Region.
The NDF, a non-governmental organization dedicated to the socioeconomic development of northern Ghana, has long championed initiatives that promote education, infrastructure, and healthcare in the region. Recognizing that sustainable development cannot be achieved in an atmosphere of unrest, the forum emphasized the importance of peace to drive meaningful growth and stability.
"Without peace, all efforts towards progress and development are in vain," said Dr. Mohammed Saani, a senior member of the NDF. "Our people deserve to live in harmony and to build a brighter future for the next generation. We implore all stakeholders, including local leaders, youth groups, and civil society, to come together in dialogue and resolve any lingering conflicts."
The forum's statement aligns with broader efforts from both government and traditional authorities, who have been actively working to mediate tensions and restore calm in Bawku. Earlier this month, Regional Security Council officials visited Bawku, meeting with the Bawku Naba, Naaba Abugragu Azoka II, and security forces to reinforce security measures and encourage open lines of communication among community members. The Bawku Naba, a strong proponent of peace, has frequently reminded his people of the value of unity and encouraged respectful discussions to address grievances.
The NDF’s appeal comes at a critical time, with Samanpiid 2024 preparations underway. Samanpiid, an occasion of joy and cultural pride, could serve as an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate their shared heritage. The forum hopes that the festival will be a platform for fostering understanding and promoting reconciliation.
"We believe that peace is not just the absence of conflict; it is the presence of justice, fairness, and opportunity for all," Dr. Saani added. "As we gather for Samanpiid, let us remember our shared values and aspirations."
In their statement, the Northern Development Forum also highlighted the need for continuous support from regional and national leaders, urging them to remain committed to initiatives that bridge divides and uplift communities. The forum reiterated that peace in Bawku would serve as a beacon of hope for the entire northern region, illustrating that development is possible when people work together in solidarity.
The NDF’s message has been widely shared on social media and in community gatherings, with many locals expressing optimism that the call for peace will resonate across Bawku and beyond.
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