Kongo: The National Peace Council (NPC) has trained and established a Local Peace Committee (LPC) and community monitors in Kongo in the Tempane District to strengthen peacebuilding efforts and prevent violent extremism.
According to Ghana News Agency, the formation of the committee followed a two-day capacity-building training programme as part of the Governance, Rule of Law and Peacebuilding for Sustainable Development Project. This initiative is being implemented by the NPC in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with funding support from the governments of Denmark, Norway, and South Korea.
Speaking at the conclusion of the workshop, Mr. Damien Asobayire, the Upper East Regional Executive Secretary of the NPC, explained that the intervention aims to promote social cohesion, prevent violent extremism, and sustain peace within communities. The nine-member LPC and 11 community monitors comprise youth representatives, women, minority groups, and representatives of different ethnic groups to ensure inclusivity in peacebuilding efforts.
Mr. Asobayire stated that the monitors would support the committee by identifying and reporting early warning signs of conflict for timely intervention. The training equipped participants with knowledge and skills to support the Peace Council's mandate of maintaining peace and stability in communities. He emphasized the importance of peace for community development and noted that following the training, an action plan was developed to guide the committee's activities and interventions.
Mr. David Atualing Angaamba, Upper East Regional Principal Project Manager at the NPC, highlighted that mediators should facilitate dialogue without imposing decisions on disputing parties. Effective dispute resolution requires patience, honesty, and sincerity, and he urged committee members to demonstrate commitment and transparency.
Participants expressed optimism about using the knowledge acquired to contribute to peacebuilding efforts. Ms. Fati Asibobo, representing the Fulbe community, was inspired to advocate for peace and social cohesion, while Mr. Abubakari Aminu Duut pledged to support the committee's activities and work towards peaceful dispute resolution. The establishment of the committee is seen as a platform to strengthen efforts in addressing conflicts before they escalate.