The Bole District Community Foundation has convened a high-level stakeholder dialogue aimed at strengthening community-based social structures to effectively address and prevent conflicts within the district.
The engagement, held on March 26, 2026 at the Mum and Dad Legacy Lodge as part of the ongoing Bole Peace Project, brought together traditional authorities, local government officials, security agencies, civil society actors, and community members to deliberate on practical approaches to sustaining peace and social cohesion.
Chairman of the Bole District Community Foundation, Rev. Adams Seidu, underscored the collective resolve of stakeholders to promote peaceful coexistence and reject all forms of violence, particularly those rooted in tribal differences and misinformation.
“We have resolved that we will not take up arms or attack people based on hearsay or perceptions. Instead, we will engage individuals directly, seek clarification, and address issues amicably,” he stated.
Rev. Seidu stressed that conflict often arises from unverified information and emotional reactions, urging residents to prioritize dialogue and understanding. He warned that violence creates cycles of retaliation that can span generations, emphasizing that “nobody wins in a war.”
He further called on security agencies to remain fair and impartial in enforcing the law, addressing concerns about perceived bias and reaffirming the importance of justice and accountability.
With the farming season approaching, Rev. Seidu highlighted the need for proactive collaboration between farmers and herdsmen, noting that chiefs and community leaders are committed to resolving any emerging disputes peacefully to safeguard food production and livelihoods.
Also speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of PureTrust Foundation, Habib Haruna, explained that the dialogue session forms part of a four-month peacebuilding and advocacy programme designed to enhance social cohesion across the district.
According to him, the project is funded by NorthCode Ghana with support from Conciliation Resources in the United Kingdom and implemented in partnership with the Pure Trust Foundation and the Bole District Community Foundation.
Mr. Haruna indicated that the initiative has employed a multi-faceted approach, including radio discussions, digital campaigns, and grassroots community engagements, reaching over 50,000 people through social media platforms.
He revealed that the project has already recorded significant progress, including the return and reintegration of individuals who previously fled conflict-affected communities.
“In some communities, people had to leave due to conflict, but through consistent engagement and advocacy, they have regained confidence and returned. We are now witnessing improved integration and peaceful coexistence,” he noted.
Mr. Haruna described the dialogue as a crucial step in consolidating gains made under the project, with over 60 key stakeholders contributing ideas and strategies to promote lasting peace.
He, however, emphasized that peacebuilding must be continuous and institutionalized, proposing that such dialogues be incorporated into an annual district development framework.
“Sustainable peace cannot be achieved through a one-time intervention. It requires continuous effort and commitment from all stakeholders,” he added.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from participants to uphold unity, strengthen community structures, and work collaboratively towards maintaining peace and stability in the Bole District.
Source:nkilgifm.com
