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Story by, Paul Mensah Nsor
Accra, Ghana – 29th July 2025 – The Universal Friendship Organisation has condemned the ongoing conflict in Bawku, calling for urgent national intervention to bring an end to the violence that has claimed the lives of innocent civilians, including children, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities.
The organisation described the situation in Bawku as a humanitarian emergency, stating that the deteriorating security situation is untenable and that immediate action is needed to protect the lives of citizens. The conflict between the Kusasi and Mamprusi communities has led to a significant loss of life and property, and the municipality is on the brink of collapse.
The Universal Friendship Organisation has called on peace advocacy groups, including the Peace Council, Christian Council, Muslim leadership, civil society organisations, and traditional leaders, to step forward and take immediate, decisive action to address the crisis. The organisation questioned the silence of these groups, asking, "Where are the voices that preach peace during elections?"
The prolonged dispute between the two communities has undone decades of social and economic progress in Bawku, with many residents fleeing the area due to fear of violence. The organisation noted that the entire municipality is on the brink of collapse if urgent measures are not taken.
The Universal Friendship Organisation expressed disappointment that prominent peace-building institutions and leaders have failed to address the crisis with the urgency and commitment it deserves. The organisation called on these stakeholders to rise above passivity and take bold steps toward reconciliation and resolution.
To address the crisis effectively, the Universal Friendship Organisation recommended:
1. Enhanced border security to prevent the influx of illicit arms and ammunition.
2. Increased logistical and legal support for national security forces to combat and control violence.
3. Joint military-police operations to disarm individuals and groups unlawfully possessing weapons.
The organisation called on all peace-promoting institutions, NGOs, traditional authorities, youth leaders, and faith-based groups to take collective responsibility for restoring peace to Bawku. The Universal Friendship Organisation stands in solidarity with the people of Bawku and reiterates its call for an immediate end to the violence and a return to peace, dignity, and development.