A youth-led advocacy group, the Concerned Youth of Bawku, has called for an immediate ceasefire in the protracted conflict that has destabilized the region for years. The group made this urgent appeal at a press conference in Bawku on Friday, February 15, 2025, emphasizing the need for peace and stability in the area.
The Bawku conflict, which initially reignited in November 2021, had shown signs of easing but flared up again in October 2024 following the return of a parallel chief to the area. Since then, tensions have escalated, culminating in a surge of violence in February 2025, with tragic consequences. The group highlighted the recent attacks along the Bolgatanga-Tamale highway, where travelers have increasingly become victims of the unrest, leading to multiple casualties.
The Concerned Youth of Bawku, in their passionate appeal, urged the two warring factions to immediately put an end to the violence and embrace dialogue as the only path to lasting peace. They also called on key national institutions, including the National Peace Council, the National House of Chiefs, the Christian Council of Ghana, the National Chief Imam, and other stakeholders, to take decisive action in mediating peace efforts and condemning the killing of innocent civilians, particularly women and children.
“Enough is enough. The continued violence in Bawku is claiming innocent lives, and the most vulnerable in our society are suffering the most. We are calling on all voices of conscience—the National Peace Council, the National House of Chiefs, the Christian Council, the National Chief Imam, and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference—to rise and speak against these killings. Peace must return to Bawku,” stated Abdul Rahim Aguuri, spokesperson for the Concerned Youth of Bawku.
The recent violence has sent shockwaves through communities in the Upper East Region and beyond, with residents living in constant fear of attacks. Many families have been displaced, businesses have been affected, and basic activities such as attending school or seeking medical care have become dangerous. The Bolgatanga-Tamale highway, a crucial transportation route, has turned into a high-risk zone, with armed assailants targeting unsuspecting travelers.
Witnesses recount harrowing experiences of violence along the highway, with reports of vehicles being stopped and passengers being subjected to attacks. The indiscriminate killings, particularly of women and children, have heightened the urgency for a resolution.
For decades, the Bawku conflict has been deeply rooted in chieftaincy disputes and ethnic rivalries, particularly between the Kusasi and Mamprusi communities. Political and economic factors have further complicated the situation, making it difficult to achieve a lasting resolution. Despite numerous interventions by government authorities and peacebuilding organizations, sporadic violence continues to undermine efforts at reconciliation.
The Concerned Youth of Bawku is now urging a fresh and holistic approach to peacebuilding, one that prioritizes dialogue, community engagement, and justice. They believe that national leaders and religious bodies have a critical role to play in bridging the divide and fostering mutual understanding among the people of Bawku.
Beyond calling for an immediate ceasefire, the youth group is also advocating for enhanced security measures that protect innocent civilians. They have urged the government to increase security presence in volatile areas, particularly along major transportation routes, to prevent further attacks on travelers.
In recent weeks, there have been increased calls for stronger government intervention to de-escalate the situation. Security forces have been deployed to the area to maintain order, but the youth group insists that military presence alone is not enough. They argue that long-term peace will only be achieved through inclusive discussions that address the root causes of the conflict and promote coexistence.
“We do not want to see more bloodshed. We do not want to hear of more families losing their loved ones. What we need is a genuine commitment from all parties to sit at the table and find a way forward. The solution to this conflict lies in dialogue, justice, and a willingness to embrace peace,” the group reiterated.
The National Peace Council and the National House of Chiefs have previously played active roles in conflict mediation efforts across Ghana, and the youth group hopes they will take urgent steps to intervene in Bawku before more lives are lost. Religious bodies, including the Christian Council and the Office of the National Chief Imam, are also being called upon to use their moral authority to advocate for peace and encourage reconciliation efforts.
Additionally, the Concerned Youth of Bawku is urging the government to prioritize socio-economic development in the region, arguing that economic hardship and lack of opportunities have fueled tensions. They propose that investment in education, job creation, and infrastructure development could help address some of the underlying frustrations that contribute to the conflict.
“The youth in Bawku want opportunities, not violence. We want jobs, education, and a future free from fear. Investing in the people of Bawku will go a long way in reducing the conditions that allow violence to thrive,” said a representative of the group.
Community leaders, civil society organizations, and international partners are also being urged to play a role in fostering dialogue and peacebuilding initiatives. The youth group believes that with collaborative efforts, lasting peace can be achieved, and Bawku can move beyond its history of conflict.
As the situation in Bawku remains fragile, the Concerned Youth of Bawku is urging all stakeholders, including government officials, traditional leaders, and civil society organizations, to come together and take decisive action to end the conflict once and for all. The group believes that with the right commitment and leadership, Bawku can move beyond its history of violence and emerge as a beacon of peace and unity in Ghana.
With their voices growing louder, the youth of Bawku are making it clear that they will not relent in their pursuit of peace. Their message is simple: the bloodshed must stop, the violence must end, and the people of Bawku must be given a chance to rebuild their lives in harmony.
