By Anthony Adongo Apubeo
Bolgatanga, May 28, GNA – The Upper East Regional Minister, Mr Akamugri Donatus Atanga, has called on religious leaders to continue praying for lasting peace in the Upper East Region, with particular attention to Bawku and its surrounding communities.
He said peace remains the foundation for development and progress, stressing the need for collective efforts to sustain harmony and stability in the region to drive sustainable development.
Mr Atanga made the call in Bolgatanga when he joined the Muslim community to celebrate this year’s Eid-Ul-Adha festival.
He reiterated government’s commitment to maintaining peace and public safety across the region and commended the Muslim community for its contributions to peace-building, moral guidance, education, business, and community development.
“I want to ask for special prayers for peace in the region and in the world. As we celebrate Eid-Ul-Adha, let us continue to pray for lasting peace in our region, especially peace in Bawku and its surrounding communities,” he said.
The Minister noted that although the region had witnessed some violent incidents in recent times, the situation had begun to subside.
He commended the security agencies for their efforts in maintaining law and order and assured the public of government’s commitment to providing the necessary support and enabling environment to sustain peace and security.
Mr Atanga also expressed concern about the growing problem of drug abuse and substance misuse among the youth, describing it as a threat to the future of young people and the moral fabric of society.
He urged religious leaders, parents, and the Muslim community to continue guiding and monitoring the youth towards responsible living and positive behaviour.
He noted that under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, the government remained committed to improving the lives of Ghanaians and restoring confidence in governance.
He disclosed that government had handed over sites for the construction of 98 projects across the Upper East Region under the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) to improve educational infrastructure and learning conditions.
According to him, sites had also been handed over for the establishment of 24-hour economic markets in all 15 Municipal and District Assemblies in the region to support local businesses, create jobs, and expand economic opportunities.
The Upper East Regional Chief Imam, Sheikh Imam Yussif Mahamoud Umar, noted that the youth are key actors in both conflict and peacebuilding efforts, and underscored the urgent need to involve them in peacebuilding strategies to ensure effective outcomes.
He said Islam is a religion of peace, love, and protection of the poor and vulnerable in society, adding that it forbids violence and extremism while promoting harmonious coexistence.
“Let us embrace peace in the region for Allah to show us mercy in this world and the hereafter,” he said.
He urged the youth to prioritise peace in the region, serve as peace ambassadors, and desist from activities that could lead to violence and conflict.
GNA
Edited by Caesar Abagali/Audrey Dekalu
Reporter: Anthony Adongo Apubeo
Email: [email protected]