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Introduction
Once known for its vibrant central market and cross-border trade in the Upper East Region, Bawku has now become synonymous with ethnic conflict, curfews, and armed youth violence. While the roots of the conflict lie in chieftaincy and ethnic tension between the Kusasi and Mamprusi, the current phase of instability reveals a dangerous evolution of youth radicalisation and this, to a very large extent, is due to “economic hopelessness” and cultural allegiance. The current Bawku conflict has expanded from ethnic tension to an “organised crime” situation where the youth are now brazenly endangering the lives of members of the security services.
With Bawku neighbouring Burkina Faso which is still grappling with the aftershocks of the 2022 military coup and Togo which is challenged with political tensions, it is not far from reach that Bawku youth can become a recruitment pool for armed militias and terrorist groups operating in the Sahel and the possibility that Bawku can also become a foothold for transnational extremism is not far-fetched.
History of the Bawku Conflict
The Bawku conflict dates back to the 1950’s however, the first serious outbreak of violence occurred in 1980 when a Mamprusi chief was re-enshrined under a new government, sparking protest and conflict. In 1983, deadly clashes erupted, leading to the loss of lives, the destruction of property, and increased ethnic polarisation. The government then intervened, reimposed the Kusasi chief, and declared Bawku a security zone. During Rawlings’ PNDC rule (1981–1992), efforts were made to support local peace, but the core chieftaincy dispute was unresolved.
In 2001, following the election of the Kufuor-led NPP government (perceived as pro-Mamprusi), violence escalated again. Mamprusis renewed their demand for recognition of their chief and this resulted in deadly clashes, leading to a state of emergency being imposed in Bawku. 2007–2008 recorded one of the “bloodiest chapters” following the funeral of a deceased Kusasi chief. Mamprusis again objected to the funeral rites being held, claiming they implied succession. The resulting clashes in 2007 and early 2008 left dozens dead and hundreds displaced. The government imposed indefinite curfews, and the military was deployed to maintain calm. However, peace remained fragile. Although the violence subsided, tensions remained high and since 2021, Bawku has seen a renewed cycle of violence, often deadlier and more brazen than in earlier years as we are presently witnessing.
Economic “Hopelessness”
Bawku is no longer just a hotspot for a localized ethnic dispute, it has now become a ticking time bomb which is being shaped by “economic hopelessness” and cultural allegiance and while our focus is on looking for lasting solutions to end the conflict, we should not lose sight on the fact that the youth have been turned into ready foot soldiers to be used to cause political mayhem which can undermine not just our peace as a nation but our democracy at large. The frequent curfews, roadblocks, and shootouts have crippled economic life in Bawku thereby affecting trade as long-distance traders avoid the area. Night-time commerce, a lifeline for many, has been banned, and daily commuting is fraught with fear.
This tells us that the solution does not lie in military presence and curfews, but in restoring economic dignity. The time to act is now because the limited access to jobs and the fact that schools have been shut down due to the conflict will only force the youth to choose dangerous alternatives, such as joining an ethnic militia that offers structure, status, income, and a purpose.
The Otumfuo Peace and Mediation Committee
The Otumfuo Committee of Eminent Chiefs was formed around 2001–2002 during the Kufuor administration to engage both the Kusasi and Mamprusi factions, understand their historical grievances, and propose a roadmap to peace. Despite the noble intentions and moral authority of the Committee, the Bawku conflict continues to prove more complex than expected.
The expectation that the peace process led by Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II will ultimately bring lasting stability to the area seems a bit misplaced because if the committee was never able to resolve the conflict in the past due to various dynamics such as the perceived view that the Asantehene’s involvement as an external imposition, or the issue of mistrust because each side accused the other of receiving support from opposing political parties, what is the guarantee that the new peace process led by the same Asantehene will ultimately bring lasting stability as expressed by President John Mahama.
Recommendations for Advocacy
There is an urgent need to promote long-term Social and Economic Development. This should focus on fostering social cohesion between different ethnic groups in Bawku. Promoting projects that bring together youth from diverse backgrounds can reduce tensions and build stronger, more united communities. The government and private sector should invest in economic development projects aimed at creating jobs, improving infrastructure, and boosting local industries.
The creation of youth employment opportunities will help reduce the sense of alienation and frustration that often fuels conflict. To address unemployment, particularly among the youth, there should be a focus on educational and vocational training programs. This will equip young people with the skills needed to enter the workforce and reduce their susceptibility to being recruited into violent activities.
Conclusion
Ending the violence in Bawku requires a holistic approach that addresses both the immediate need for security and humanitarian assistance as well as the long-term social, political, and economic challenges that fuel the conflict. By promoting economic development and engaging the youth, we can move towards a more peaceful and stable Bawku.