By Yussif Ibrahim, GNA
Kumasi, May 8, GNA – Dr. Harriet Takyi, Ashanti Regional Chairperson of the National Peace Council, has underscored the need for strong and deliberate leadership in Zongo communities to manage diversity peacefully and sustain harmony.
She said Zongo communities had for decades remained centres of diversity, culture, faith and enterprise, and therefore required collective effort and responsible leadership to manage differences before they escalated into conflict.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Muslim Peace and Reconciliation Committee in Kumasi, Dr. Takyi observed that although diversity was a major strength, it also demanded tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect among residents.
“Zongo communities have long been centres of diversity, culture, faith and enterprise. Whilst diversity is a great strength, it also calls for deliberate leadership and collective effort to manage differences peacefully,” she stated.
The inauguration and training workshop was organised by the Ashanti Regional Office of the National Peace Council in collaboration with the Office of the Regional Chief Imam to equip members of the committee with conflict prevention and peacebuilding skills.
Dr. Takyi said the establishment of the Zongo Peace Committee had become necessary at a time when divisions along political, ethnic, religious and social lines continued to threaten national unity and peaceful coexistence.
She noted that misinformation, intolerance, and increasing tensions within communities had the tendency to trigger avoidable conflicts, especially among vulnerable groups.
The committee, she explained, would serve as the first line of peacebuilding by working closely with community leaders, youth groups, security agencies, and local authorities to prevent conflicts and promote dialogue.
She reminded the committee members that their role required neutrality, courage, integrity, and unwavering commitment to justice and unity.
According to her, the training workshop would equip participants with skills in mediation, early warning systems, and community engagement to enable them to discharge their responsibilities effectively.
Dr. Takyi commended traditional and religious leaders, security agencies, civil society organisations and development partners for their continuous support towards sustaining peace in communities across the region.
She expressed confidence that the newly inaugurated members would serve with humility, patience, and dedication towards strengthening peace and social cohesion in the Zongo communities.
GNA
Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Yussif Ibrahim
[email protected]