By Kingsley Mamore
Dambai (O/R), Aug 28, GNA – Mr John Maakorpu, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Konkomba Youth Association (KOYA), has revealed that the Konkomba Youth Association (KOYA) and the Bassare Youth Association (BAYA) were originally part of a single youth organisation before the two groups eventually separated.
Mr Maakorpu made the revelation in an exclusive engagement with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), explaining that the two associations had historically operated under a common leadership structure before circumstances led to their separation.
According to him, although the KOYA and the BAYA eventually developed into separate associations representing their respective youth groups, the leadership and organisational structures remained closely connected, with individuals who had previously played leadership roles continuing to contribute to the affairs of both groups.
He said the historical relationship between the two associations was important in understanding the longstanding social and cultural ties between the Konkomba and Bassare communities.
Mr Maakorpu said the separation should not necessarily be interpreted as a complete breakdown of relations, stressing that members of the two groups continued to share common interests, cultural values and concerns, particularly on issues affecting the development and welfare of their people.
He noted that youth associations had an important role to play in promoting unity, peaceful coexistence, and development, particularly in communities where different ethnic groups had lived together for generations.
The KOYA PRO therefore called for greater efforts to strengthen the relationship between the youth of the two communities and encourage dialogue whenever differences emerged.
He said historical ties should serve as a foundation for cooperation rather than division, adding that the younger generation had a responsibility to preserve peaceful relationships and work together for the development of their communities and the wider country.
Mr Maakorpu also encouraged traditional leaders, youth organisations and other stakeholders to continue creating platforms for constructive engagement, saying such initiatives could help deepen mutual understanding and prevent disagreements from escalating.
He said KOYA remained committed to peaceful coexistence and collaboration with other youth organisations in advancing the interests of their respective communities and promoting development.
He urged the youth to focus on areas of common interest and avoid actions and rhetoric that could create unnecessary divisions among communities with longstanding historical relationships.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Benjamin Mensa