The Apostolic Nuncio to Ghana, His Excellency Rev Julien Kabore, has emphasised the Catholic Church’s global commitment to peacebuilding and called on both religious and civil authorities to work together in restoring calm to Bawku, a conflict-prone area in Ghana’s Upper East Region.
Rev Kabore made the remarks during a courtesy visit to Upper East Regional Minister Donatus Akamugri Atanga, as tensions remain high in Bawku due to long-standing inter-ethnic conflict.
The Nuncio highlighted the Catholic Church’s annual observance of World Day of Peace every 1 January, noting that peace is more than the absence of war.
“Peace is not just an absence of conflict. It is a positive presence — a commitment to healing and reconciliation,” Kabore said.
“Our Lord says, ‘Blessed are the peacemakers,’ and we must all work together, not only with prayers but also with practical engagement.”
The Vatican diplomat assured the regional minister of the Church’s prayers and spiritual support, adding that “some problems, only God can solve.” However, he emphasised the importance of leadership, dialogue, and commitment from all sides in seeking peaceful solutions.
The Upper East Regional Minister Donatus Akamugri welcomed the Nuncio’s visit and urged religious leaders to use their influence to help de-escalate the situation in Bawku. He noted that many individuals involved in the conflict are members of various religious groups, particularly Christian denominations, making churches critical actors in peacebuilding.
“When I see men of God like you, I take the opportunity to call on you for help — not just through prayers, but through action,” Akamugri said. “Religious leaders are respected because they are perceived as neutral. When they speak, people listen.”
The Minister called on churches to collaborate closely with the National Peace Council and other institutions working to address the crisis in Bawku. He emphasised that religious institutions have unique access to communities and can serve as credible messengers for reconciliation.
“You have followers even among those engaged in the conflict. Use your institutions to help us resolve this matter,” he said.
The renewed call for peace follows several years of unrest in Bawku, where ethnic tensions between Kusasi and Mamprusi groups have periodically escalated into violence. Multiple government-led interventions and military deployments have been implemented, but sustainable peace remains elusive.
Rev Kabore said the Church will continue to support national and regional peace efforts and awaits the theme of the Vatican’s next World Day of Peace message, expected in early 2026.
Both leaders agreed that peace in Bawku is possible if political, religious, and community actors commit to coordinated and sustained action.
Reporting by Mark Smith in the Upper East Region
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