Bolgatanga Municipal NCCE engages community youth groups on Peace and PCVE

By – Sadat Dabo 

The Bolgatanga Municipal Office of the National Commission for Civic Education with funding from the European Union (EU) has engaged Five (5) community youth groups in the Bolgatanga Municipality at the Bolgatanga Municipal Assembly Hall on Monday November 18, 2024 on how they can help prevent and contain violent extremism in their communities ahead of December 7, elections

Participants were mainly members of Dorongo, Shirigu , Nyariga, Yorogo and  Sumbrungu Communities

The program was crafted to encourage dialogue, social cohesion, and sensitize youth to the dangers of violent extremism, especially as the country approaches a high-stakes electoral season in 2024.

Mr. Omar Jafaru Alsadq, the Bolgatanga Municipal director of NCCE in his opening Remarks underscored the significance of maintaining peace before, during, and after the upcoming elections, warning that tensions can make young people more susceptible to radicalization, especially in the face of economic hardships, corruption, and marginalisation.

The Municipal NCCE director elaborated on how extremist factions exploit such vulnerabilities through sophisticated recruitment and propaganda efforts, targeting the youth to foment unrest and propagate violence.

Mr. Omar further acknowledged the European Union’s financial support in bringing this critical engagement to fruition and called on the youth and all stakeholders to resist the pressures that may incite them towards violence.

The Upper East Regional Head of Intel of  Ghana immigration service, Superintendent David Nii Noi Nartey advised the youth to be watchful and give out the necessary information about any suspected characters to the security services that will aid their work. He added that Churches, Mosques, and other public gatherings should always be vigilant to avoid any possible violent attacks

The Regional Director of NCCE Mr. Abdulia James Ayaala provided a culturally resonant perspective on the importance of peace and democracy. Reflecting on Ghana’s progression towards its ninth (9th ) national election since 1992, he noted that tension often accompanies electoral periods. “If we truly understand democracy, there should be no tension. Peace is the foundation that allows citizens to go about their business in tranquilly,” he stated.

Mr.Abubakari Sadiq Abdul Rahman , Chairman of the inter-party Dialogue committee, address social cohesion and the role of tolerance in fostering harmony. He advocated for the elimination of religious, ethnic, and cultural discrimination and encouraged participants to engage in interfaith dialogues and community-building activities. By fostering mutual understanding and acceptance, communities can bridge divides and build resilience against extremism.

Following the presentations, participants broke into three (3) groups for in-depth discussions on the main themes of the program. These groups included representatives from Dorongo Youth, Shirigu Youth, Nyariga Youth, Yorogo Youth and Sumbrungu Youth.
Each group synthesized their insights and shared key takeaways with the larger assembly, reflecting a strong commitment to unity and peace.

The Youths in a communique expressed their willingness to provide information to the security agencies to help prevent extremists into the Municipality. And called for peace before, during and after the elections

About fifty (50) people in five Communities participated in the program.

Source – gbcuraonline.com