Bawku, Ghana – As part of his unwavering commitment to fostering peace and unity in conflict-affected areas, the President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, embarked on a peace-building visit to the Bawku enclave.
This marks his first major assignment outside Accra, just one week after being sworn into office on January 7, 2025.
The visit forms part of the President’s broader agenda to address long-standing conflicts and promote dialogue among stakeholders, with Bawku being a key priority.
Engagement with Traditional Authorities
A pivotal moment of the visit was the President’s meeting with the Bawku Naaba, Zug-Raan Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, at the esteemed Zug-Raan’s Palace.
President Mahama was warmly received by the traditional leader, sub-chiefs, queen mothers, the council of elders, and other dignitaries.
During the meeting, the President expressed deep gratitude to the Bawku Naaba for his blessings, which he believes played a vital role in his electoral success.
“I came here to seek the blessings of my father before the election, and God granted our heart’s desire and I got elected. And so my first mission was to come to say thank you to him,” President Mahama said, emphasizing his respect and appreciation for the role of traditional authorities.
A Campaign Promise to Bring Peace
Reaffirming a key pledge made during his campaign, the President highlighted his determination to prioritize peace in Bawku as a cornerstone of his administration.
“During the campaign, I stated that if God granted our desire and I was elected president, bringing peace to Bawku was going to be one of my number one priorities,” he reiterated.
Strengthening Security Leadership
President Mahama announced immediate plans to strengthen the nation’s security leadership to address the Bawku conflict comprehensively.
He revealed that key appointments, including the Minister of Defense, Minister of Interior, National Security Adviser, National Security Coordinator, and the Director of the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI), would be made soon.
These officials, he said, will be charged with making Bawku’s peace and security a top priority.
“So today is exactly one week since I was sworn in at the Black Stars Square, and it’s my first major assignment outside Accra. I decided to come and assure you that we are going to work,” he said.
A Call for Unity and Collaboration
President Mahama’s visit underscores his administration’s commitment to working closely with traditional authorities, stakeholders, and the people of Bawku to achieve lasting peace.
By fostering dialogue and implementing a robust security framework, the President aims to resolve the long-standing conflict that has affected the region for decades.
This visit is a significant step towards a collaborative and sustainable solution to the challenges facing the Bawku enclave.
Story by: Emmanuel Romeo Tetteh (#RomeoWrites) / Ahotoronline.com | Ghana