Renewed,Curfew and Imposes Weapons Ban in Bawku Amid Ongoing Security Concerns
On February 24, 2025, the Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of the Interior, renewed the curfew in the Bawku Municipality and its surrounding areas in the Upper East Region. The revised curfew hours are now from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM, effective immediately. This measure aims to address the persistent security challenges in the region and to maintain peace and order among the residents. citeturn0search0
In addition to the curfew, the Ministry has imposed a total ban on the possession and use of arms, ammunition, and any offensive weapons within the affected communities. Authorities have issued a stern warning that individuals found in violation of this directive will face arrest and prosecution. citeturn0search0
The government has called upon chiefs, elders, opinion leaders, youth, and residents to exercise restraint amid the ongoing challenges and to prioritize peaceful resolutions to conflicts. This appeal underscores the importance of community collaboration in fostering a secure and harmonious environment. citeturn0search0
Background of the Conflict
Bawku, a town located in the northeastern part of Ghana, has been a focal point of ethnic and chieftaincy disputes for several decades. The town serves as the capital of the Bawku Municipal District and is situated near the border with Burkina Faso. The municipality covers a total land area of about 257 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 119,458 people as of 2021. citeturn0search6
The primary conflict in Bawku revolves around chieftaincy disputes between the Kusasi and Mamprusi ethnic groups. These disputes have historical roots dating back to colonial times, with both groups laying claim to traditional leadership roles in the area. Over the years, tensions have escalated into violent clashes, resulting in loss of lives and property, and disrupting the socio-economic activities of the region.
Recent Developments Leading to the Curfew Renewal
In October 2024, the Bawku Municipality experienced a resurgence of violence linked to the chieftaincy dispute. On October 28, 2024, an attack on the Bolgatanga-Tamale highway near Gbimsi led to the deaths of eight travelers. Armed assailants reportedly set up roadblocks, stopping vehicles to question passengers, and the attack lasted over an hour, during which two vehicles were set on fire. This incident heightened security concerns in the region and was linked to the ongoing Bawku chieftaincy conflict. citeturn0search6
Following this attack, the government imposed a curfew on the Bawku Municipality to prevent further violence and to restore order. Despite these measures, sporadic clashes continued, leading to additional casualties and displacement of residents. The persistence of these conflicts necessitated the renewal of the curfew and the implementation of stricter measures, including the weapons ban announced on February 24, 2025.
Impact on the Local Population
The ongoing conflict and the subsequent security measures have had significant implications for the residents of Bawku and its environs. The curfew restricts movement during the designated hours, affecting economic activities, particularly for those engaged in night-time businesses and transportation services. The weapons ban aims to reduce the incidence of armed violence but also places a responsibility on law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance without infringing on the rights of law-abiding citizens.
Educational institutions have also been impacted, with schools experiencing intermittent closures due to safety concerns. The disruption of educational activities poses long-term challenges for the youth in the area, affecting their academic progress and future opportunities.
Healthcare services have been strained as well, with medical personnel facing difficulties in accessing certain areas during curfew hours. This situation hampers the delivery of essential health services and exacerbates the vulnerabilities of populations in need of medical attention.
Government and Community Responses
In response to the ongoing challenges, the government has reiterated its commitment to restoring peace in Bawku. Security forces have been deployed to enforce the curfew and to conduct operations aimed at disarming individuals in possession of illegal weapons. The government has also engaged in dialogue with traditional leaders and stakeholders to address the underlying causes of the conflict and to promote reconciliation among the disputing factions.
Community leaders and civil society organizations have been instrumental in peacebuilding efforts, organizing sensitization programs to educate the populace on the importance of peaceful coexistence. These initiatives aim to bridge the divide between the conflicting groups and to foster a culture of dialogue and mutual respect.
Religious institutions have also played a role in advocating for peace, with clerics from various denominations calling for an end to the violence and urging their congregations to embrace non-violent means of resolving disputes. These collective efforts underscore the community's desire for lasting peace and development in the region.
Conclusion
The renewal of the curfew and the imposition of a weapons ban in Bawku reflect the government's efforts to curb the recurring violence stemming from longstanding chieftaincy disputes. While these measures are necessary to maintain order, a sustainable resolution requires addressing the root causes of the conflict through inclusive dialogue, equitable development, and the strengthening of traditional and legal frameworks for conflict resolution. The path to peace in Bawku lies in the collective commitment of all stakeholders to prioritize harmony and the well-being of the community over divisive interests.
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