By: Alexander Afriyie
The Bawku conflict, a longstanding dispute between the Mamprusi and Kusasi ethnic groups over chieftaincy control, continues to plague Ghana’s Upper East Region. The clash, which resumed on October 24, 2024, has resulted in at least 20 deaths and numerous injuries, with reports suggesting over 200 lives have been lost since November 2021.
The Root of the Conflict
The conflict centers on the enthronement of a new chief, which was deemed illegal by a High Court. The court’s decision sparked tension, leading to gunshots, deaths, and injuries. The Mamprusi and Kusasi communities have been locked in this dispute for years, with each side vying for control of the Bawku chieftaincy.
Humanitarian Crisis
The conflict has led to a humanitarian crisis, with residents fleeing the town to seek refuge. Economic activities have come to a standstill, and markets, shops, and public gatherings are deserted. Women and children are among the most affected, with many unable to access healthcare and education. Pregnant women are struggling to get medical attention, and children are out of school.
Government Intervention
The government has imposed a curfew on the Bawku Township to bring the situation under control. However, the effectiveness of this measure remains uncertain. The Ministry of the Interior’s efforts to restore peace have been met with skepticism, with some residents expressing frustration over the lack of commitment from stakeholders to resolve the conflict.
Regional Security Concerns
The Bawku conflict poses significant challenges to regional security, with concerns about the spread of violent extremism from the Sahel region into Ghana. The town’s proximity to the Burkina Faso border makes it a potential conduit for illicit arms and terrorist infiltration. Ghana’s President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has acknowledged the intricate nature of the conflict and its potential implications for national security.
Peacebuilding Efforts
Several organizations, including the National Peace Council, Christian Council of Ghana, and West African Network for Peacebuilding, have supported peace initiatives in Bawku. However, these efforts have yet to achieve lasting peace. Stakeholders must intensify their efforts to resolve the conflict and prevent it from becoming a conduit for terrorism and violent extremism .
The Way Forward
Resolving the Bawku conflict requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the underlying issues and promotes sustainable peace. The government, stakeholders, and local communities must work together to find a lasting solution to this complex conflict. Until then, the people of Bawku will continue to suffer, and the region will remain vulnerable to security threats. Alexander Afriyie