The Catholic Diocese of Navrongo-Bolgatanga has called for peace and unity in response to the rising violence in the North East and Upper East Regions of Ghana.
A statement, signed and copied to the Ghana News Agency in Bolgatanga by Most Reverend Alfred Agyenta, Bishop of the Diocese, expressed concern over the recent escalation of violence, particularly in Bawku and surrounding areas in the Upper East Region, which has now spread into parts of the West Mamprusi in the North East Region.
The statement said, “on the eve of February 28, 2025, we were once again confronted with violent incidents in communities and towns in the Bunkpurugu-Nakpanduri District, resulting in property destruction and loss of life”.
The statement acknowledged the presence of security forces working to maintain peace and order and commended the government’s efforts to impose curfews in Bawku and Walewale to curb the violence but expressed concern over the reported instances of excessive force by security personnel.
“We are deeply saddened by the escalating violence in these areas, which threatens our collective resolve to develop our regions. This situation has heightened insecurity and fear among residents and commuters.
“The ongoing conflict has exacerbated an already challenging situation in the North East and Upper East Regions, which now faces three significant issues. violence related to chieftaincy, poverty, and underdevelopment.
“While measures are underway to minimize violence, we appeal to all parties involved in the conflict to demonstrate collective commitment and action during this critical time to alleviate the suffering of our people, particularly children, women, and the elderly”, it added.
The statement bemoaned the detrimental impact of the violence on social and economic activities, as well as the potential disruption of trade between Ghana and neighboring countries Burkina Faso and Togo.
“As a partner in development, the Church recognizes the existing development gap in the area. Over the years, we have supported various initiatives to ensure that the populations have at least minimum access to essential services, including health, education, and livelihoods, with the goal of enabling people to live with dignity and peace.
“Other faith-based organizations have made similar efforts to bridge this development gap, however, the infrastructure and social intervention gap continue to widen with each reported violent conflict, as state resources are diverted from development to security measures”, it lamented.
While urging the security agencies to uphold professionalism and treat residents with dignity and respect, the statement also appealed to traditional authorities to leverage their conflict management skills to support peace efforts and encouraged civil society and peace actors to collaborate in promoting safety and security.
The statement emphasized the importance of collective commitment to peace, urging people of all faiths to engage in dialogue and reconciliation.
“In particular, we encourage followers of the Abrahamic faith to draw strength from the spiritual benefits of the ongoing Ramadan fast to support peacebuilding and reconciliation initiatives.
“We also urge the Catholic faithful to utilize the upcoming Lenten Season for fasting, prayer, almsgiving, and to be more accommodating of the peace efforts of the Diocese and beyond”, it appealed.
The statement prayed for healing and inner peace for the victims and their families
