A high-leveled peace dialogue aimed at strengthening unity and fostering sustainable development has been successfully held at Mum and Dad Hotel in Bole, bringing together chiefs, security agencies, political leaders, and community stakeholders.
The event, chaired by Rev. Adams Seidu, was held on the theme: “The Role of Community-Based Social Structures in Achieving Lasting Peace and Development.”
The dialogue was organized by the Bole District Community Foundation in collaboration with Pure Trust Foundation, with support from North Code Ghana and partners from the United Kingdom.
In his address, Rev. Adams Seidu emphasized the need for peaceful and respectful ways of resolving disputes within the District.
He stated that community members have collectively resolved to avoid violence, tribal conflicts, and actions based on rumors or perceptions.
“We will not take up arms against one another. Instead, we will engage individuals directly, ask questions, and resolve issues amicably. Nobody wins in war,” he stressed.
He further warned that conflicts only create cycles of revenge across generations, urging residents to embrace dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect.
Chiefs, opinion leaders, youth representatives, and leaders of various ethnic groups at the forum highlighted the importance of respecting each other’s cultural values and traditions, avoiding misinformation and false accusations, addressing grievances through dialogue rather than violence, and promoting unity among farmers and herdsmen, especially as the farming season approaches.
Security officials also assured the public of their commitment to fairness and professionalism, pledging to enforce the law without bias.
The Chief Executive Officer of Pure Trust Foundation explained that the dialogue forms part of the Bole Peace Project, a four-month advocacy initiative designed to promote peace and social cohesion using community-based structures.
According to him, the project has already achieved significant impact through radio and community advocacy campaigns, digital outreach reaching over 50,000 people on Facebook, and community engagements that have helped displaced persons return and reintegrate into their communities.
“Peacebuilding is not a one-time activity. It is a continuous process, and we are confident that the Bole District Community Foundation will sustain this effort,” he noted.
Participants proposed that such dialogues be institutionalized as part of an annual district development conference, ensuring continuous engagement on peace and development issues.
The program recorded strong participation, with over 60 stakeholders contributing ideas and strategies to strengthen peace in the District.
The dialogue concluded with a unified message that peace is everyone’s responsibility. Community members were encouraged to promote tolerance and coexistence, report issues appropriately, support local leadership and security agencies, and work together to ensure food security and development.
As Bole prepares for the farming season, leaders expressed optimism that strengthened collaboration between farmers, herdsmen, and community members will ensure a peaceful and productive period.
“When there is peace, development thrives. Let us all commit to making Bole a model of unity and harmony,”.
source:Do-ara Frank
