Sunyani: The National Secretariat of the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) of the Judicial Service has sensitized traditional leaders and students in the Sunyani West Municipality on Court-Connected Alternative Dispute Resolution (CCADR).
According to Ghana News Agency, the exercise was held at the Fiapre Circuit Court with the aim of enhancing public understanding of ADR mechanisms and strengthening traditional leaders' capacity in handling customary arbitration. The event was part of the activities marking the 2026 ADR Week, scheduled from March 16 to 20.
Madam Christiana Puorideme, Acting National Deputy Director of ADR, explained that the CCADR, introduced in 2005, facilitates faster and amicable dispute resolution while reducing the burden on courts. She emphasized that when a case is referred to ADR for mediation, the process is owned by the parties involved. Once a consensus is reached and the court accepts the agreement, the decision is final and cannot be appealed. She clarified that mediators guide the parties but do not impose decisions.
Angelina Mensah-Homiah, Justice of the Court of Appeal and Judge in charge of ADR, underscored the significant role of traditional authorities in customary arbitration. She urged them to adhere to legal protocols to ensure fairness and credibility in their processes. She advised, "When you arbitrate, listen patiently to all parties and ensure the process is properly conducted, so outcomes are not later challenged in court."
Justice Mensah-Homiah also pointed out ongoing reforms aimed at reducing adjournments and accelerating court adjudication processes.
Enoch Amoah, a participant in the exercise, described it as insightful, noting that it enhanced his understanding of ADR as an effective means of resolving disputes outside traditional court settings.
Following the event in Sunyani, ADR officials visited the Bechem and Duayaw Nkwanta Courts in Ahafo, as well as the Berekum, Dormaa Courts, and Sunyani High Court in the Bono Regions to further promote awareness and utilization of ADR.