By: Ishmael Barfi
Accra, Ghana – The Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (FOSDA) has extended its highest commendation to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for his decisive leadership in mediating the long‑standing Bawku conflict.
The formal presentation of the Bawku Mediation Report to President John Dramani Mahama at Jubilee House marks a historic milestone that FOSDA has long advocated as essential for human security and national stability.
Since early 2022, FOSDA has campaigned for a “Committee of Eminent Chiefs” to lead a traditional mediation process, drawing on the successful precedent of the Dagbon peace talks. The organization says the recent report validates its position that while security deployments can provide immediate stability, lasting peace requires inclusive dialogue that addresses the deep‑rooted causes of the conflict.
This was contained in a press statement issued on Wednesday, 17th December, 2025 and signed by Theodora W. Anti, Executive Director, FOSDA in Accra.
FOSDA also praised the Government of Ghana for its unwavering political will in prioritizing the Bawku peace process. President Mahama’s receptive stance, emphasizing reconciliation over a “winners‑and‑losers” approach, was highlighted as crucial for Ghana’s broader economic growth.
The government’s decision to empower the Asantehene’s mediation team demonstrates, according to FOSDA, a sophisticated understanding of how traditional authority and state power can collaborate to resolve complex internal security challenges.
Yhe press statement also commended the Ministry of the Interior, under Hon. Muntaka Mohammed‑Mubarak, for its dedication to safeguarding the region and treating peace as a non‑negotiable prerequisite for development.
While celebrating this milestone, FOSDA stressed that a report is only as powerful as its execution. The foundation urged the swift implementation of the recommendations to maintain momentum and rebuild public confidence.
In addition, FOSDA called for an immediate “Development Marshall Plan” for Bawku to restore health, education and trade sectors crippled by years of unrest. The organization applauded the leadership of the Mamprusi and Kusasi factions for choosing dialogue over conflict and urged the youth of Bawku to reject incitement, embrace the “One Family” vision articulated by the Asantehene, and become peace ambassadors by channeling their energy into innovation and trade.
“The ultimate foundation for the prosperity the people of Bawku deserve is peace,” the statement read. “We call on all parties to ensure that the guns remain silent forever, so that development can finally take root.”
“FOSDA remains committed to monitoring the peace process and supporting initiatives that promote human security, justice and development across Ghana and the West African sub‑region”, the press statement reiterated.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
